Impetigo

What is impetigo?

Impetigo is a common skin infection caused by streptococcal or staphylococcal bacteria. The infection occurs when the bacteria get under the skin, often in scrapes, cuts, or insect bites. Impetigo is most common in children.

What does it look like?

Impetigo is a skin rash characterized by small, red bumps or blisters which may ooze or be covered by a honeycoloured crust. The rash usually appears around the nose, mouth, or part of the skin not covered by clothes.

How does it spread?

Impetigo can spread from person to person by having skin contact with fluid from the blisters or contaminated articles such as towels and bed linens. It can take 7 to 10 days after contact with the bacteria to develop the skin rash. It is contagious until the infected person has taken antibiotics for at least 24 hours or until the lesions have healed.

How can I prevent impetigo?

• Wash your hands with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer:
• before eating or making food,
• after going to the bathroom (or after diapering),
• after touching infected skin, and
• after playing.

What can I do about impetigo?

• Watch for signs of impetigo if you or your child has been in contact with someone who has a streptococcal or staphylococcal infection.
• If symptoms develop, see your family doctor and follow any treatment.
• Make sure that everyone washes their hands thoroughly after touching infected skin.
• Do not share your face cloth or hand and bath towel.
• Keep young children with impetigo home until they have received one full day of antibiotic treatment.

Frequent hand washing is recommended to prevent the spread of impetigo.

For more information, contact KFL&A Public Health at 613-549-1232 or 1-800-267-7875.

Revised: 2010-10-12