Impetigo care: practical steps

Impetigo is a contagious bacterial infection affecting the outer skin. Sores may begin as small blisters or red patches, then break and form a yellow-brown crust. Keep the area clean with lukewarm water and mild soap, pat it dry, and avoid rubbing or picking. Wash hands after touching the skin, and keep towels, clothing, bedding, and razors separate until they have been washed.

A child or adult with active sores should avoid close skin contact and sharing personal items. Existing eczema, including atopic dermatitis, can create irritated skin where infection takes hold; see Atopic Dermatitis for related skin-barrier information.

Arrange an assessment so a clinician can decide whether topical treatment or medicine taken by mouth is appropriate. Use a prescribed cream or ointment exactly as directed, after cleaning the skin. If oral antibiotics are prescribed, take the course as instructed and do not share leftover medicine. Cover lesions with a clean, loose dressing when practical, change it if damp or dirty, and wash hands before and after dressing changes. More guidance is available under Topical Antibiotic Therapy and Antibiotics For Skin Infection.

Seek prompt medical advice if sores are spreading quickly, the surrounding skin becomes increasingly red, warm, swollen, or painful, or there is fever, marked tiredness, or pus. Get urgent help if the person appears seriously unwell, has facial swelling near the eye, or develops trouble breathing. Review is also sensible when treatment does not seem to be helping or infections keep returning.

Ask which treatment is suitable for the number and location of sores, how long to keep lesions covered, when school or work can safely resume, and how to manage eczema or another irritated skin condition alongside the infection.