What should you know about impetigo skin condition?

The infection often begins where skin is scratched, irritated or already broken. Small red patches may develop into fluid-filled blisters or shallow open sores. After fluid dries, a yellow-brown crust can form; this is why impetigo may be described as school sores. It can occur on the face, hands, arms or other exposed areas, and touching or scratching can move bacteria to nearby skin or another person.

A skin condition such as atopic dermatitis can leave the protective barrier more vulnerable, but a crusted spot is not enough to confirm impetigo. A clinician may diagnose it by examining the pattern and appearance, especially when lesions are multiplying or affecting close contacts.

Gently clean affected skin, pat it dry and cover sores with a clean dressing when practical. Wash hands after touching the area, keep fingernails short, and avoid sharing towels, clothing, bedding, razors or cosmetics. Launder items that touch the sores and avoid picking the crusts.

Arrange medical advice so treatment matches the number, location and extent of lesions. A small localised infection may be managed with topical antibiotic therapy, while more extensive disease may need antibiotics for skin infection. Use prescribed treatment for the full advised course and do not use leftover medicine.

Seek prompt medical care if sores are spreading quickly, painful, unusually swollen, close to the eyes, or accompanied by fever, marked tiredness or feeling unwell. Get urgent help for severe swelling around the eye, confusion, or difficulty drinking. A baby, person with reduced immunity, or someone with a large affected area should be assessed early.

Ask whether the appearance fits impetigo, which treatment is appropriate for the affected area, when the infection should stop being contagious, and how to protect household members. Mention recent skin injury, eczema symptoms, new medicines and any previous antibiotic reactions.