Impetigo from strep throat: what to know

Strep throat affects the throat and may cause a sudden sore throat, painful swallowing, fever or swollen neck glands. Impetigo affects the skin and commonly produces blisters or sores that break and form a sticky crust. The bacteria can spread through close contact, hands and shared items, so skin and throat symptoms may occur in the same household or person. A throat examination and skin assessment help distinguish strep throat from viral illness and identify whether the skin needs separate treatment.

Arrange a GP consultation if strep throat is suspected, if skin sores are spreading, or if symptoms occur together. Keep impetigo lesions clean, avoid picking them, cover them when possible, and do not share towels or utensils. Take prescribed antibiotic treatment for the full advised course and never share doses. Fluids, rest and suitable pain relief can ease throat discomfort; follow local product instructions and ask a pharmacist if unsure.

Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, inability to swallow saliva, severe dehydration, rapidly worsening neck swelling, confusion, or a very unwell appearance. Prompt review is also needed if fever persists, sores become hot and increasingly painful, or redness spreads beyond the original area.

Ask whether a throat test is needed, whether the skin lesions require a separate medicine, how long infection may be contagious, and which household contacts should be assessed.