Mupirocin for impetigo: what to know

Impetigo is a contagious bacterial skin infection that can form blisters, sores, and yellow-brown crusts, often around the nose, mouth, or on exposed skin. Mupirocin is applied to the affected skin; it works against susceptible bacteria at the site. A crust alone does not establish the diagnosis, since eczema and other rashes can also become crusted. Read more about [Crusting Skin](/symptoms/skin-crusting/) and [Atopic Dermatitis](/conditions/atopic-dermatitis/).

Use mupirocin exactly as prescribed, on clean, gently dried skin, and wash your hands before and after application. Keep it away from the eyes, inside the nose unless specifically directed, and the mouth. Do not share towels, clothing, cosmetics, or the medicine; wash hands regularly and keep sores covered when practical. Finish the prescribed course unless the prescriber tells you to stop. If several areas are involved, sores keep appearing, or there is no clear improvement, contact the clinician rather than extending treatment yourself. See [Topical Antibiotic Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antibiotic-therapy/) and [Antibiotics For Skin Infection](/treatments/medical-dermatology/antibiotic-therapy-for-skin-infection/).

Arrange prompt medical advice if redness is spreading, pain or swelling is increasing, fever develops, or the skin near an eye is involved. Seek urgent help for marked weakness, confusion, or rapidly worsening illness. A clinician may need to reassess the diagnosis or consider treatment that reaches more extensive infection.

Ask whether the sores fit impetigo, how much ointment to apply, how long to use it, and what to do if a dose is missed. Also ask when it is safe to return to close-contact activities and whether household contacts need advice.