Impetigo and sore throat: what to know

Impetigo causes red sores, blisters or golden-brown crusts, often around the nose and mouth or on exposed skin. A sore throat may come from a virus, irritation, tonsillitis or a bacterial infection such as strep throat. The throat symptom does not identify the cause of a skin rash by itself. A clinician may look at the lesions, check the throat and feel the neck glands. Mention fever, painful swallowing, cough, runny nose and anyone else at home with similar symptoms.

Keep the sores clean and covered where practical, wash hands after touching them, and avoid sharing towels, pillows, clothing or face cloths. Do not scratch or pick the crusts. Use medicines exactly as prescribed; treatment may be a cream, tablets, or both depending on the extent and site of infection. Rest and drink fluids for throat discomfort. Avoid close contact while sores are wet or until a clinician says returning to school or work is appropriate.

Arrange a GP assessment if sores are spreading, recurring, painful, or not improving with treatment, or if swallowing pain persists. Seek urgent help for trouble breathing or swallowing saliva, marked swelling of the face or neck, severe weakness, confusion, or rapidly spreading redness and warmth around the sores.

Ask whether the throat needs a swab, whether the skin appearance fits impetigo, how long to keep lesions covered, and when the person can safely return to shared settings.