Impetigo
Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection that primarily affects infants and young children. It typically appears as red sores on the face, especially around the nose and mouth, and on the hands and feet.
Overview
Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection that primarily affects infants and young children. It typically appears as red sores on the face, especially around the nose and mouth, and on the hands and feet.
Symptoms
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Causes
- •Staphylococcus aureus bacteria
- •Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria
- •Skin-to-skin contact with an infected person
- •Contact with contaminated items like towels or toys
Risk factors
- •Age (most common in children 2 to 5 years old)
- •Warm, humid climates
- •Close contact in schools or childcare centers
- •Skin breaks from cuts, scrapes, or insect bites
How it progresses
3 stages- OnsetSymptoms appear, often triggered by a known cause.Often missed
- Active phaseSymptoms peak; self-care or short treatment usually helps.
- ResolutionSymptoms ease over days to weeks with proper care.
How it's diagnosed
- •Physical examination of the skin lesions
- •Review of symptoms and medical history
- •Skin swab culture (in recurring or resistant cases)
Treatment options
General educational information only — no dosage advice. Always follow guidance from a qualified clinician.
- •Prescription antibiotic ointment or cream
- •Oral antibiotic medications for widespread cases
- •Keeping the skin clean to prevent spread
- •Gently washing sores with warm water and soap
- •Covering sores loosely with bandages
- •Regular handwashing
- •Washing infected clothes and linens in hot water
Complications
- •Reduced quality of life
- •Worsening symptoms over time
- •Recurrence of impetigo
Prevention
- •Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- •See a clinician for routine check-ups
When to seek help
- •Symptoms persist beyond a few days
- •Symptoms interfere with daily activities
- •New or worsening symptoms appear
- •Concerning changes related to impetigo
- High fever or chills
- Spread of redness and warmth around the sores (cellulitis)
- Pus-filled blisters that are very painful
- Swollen lymph nodes near the infection site
In any emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department.
Real-world questions
- ›Can Impetigo cause headaches?
- ›Is Impetigo reversible?
- ›How quickly does Impetigo progress?
- ›Is Impetigo hereditary?
- ›Can Impetigo be prevented?
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Frequently asked questions
Possible causes of Impetigo include Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, Skin-to-skin contact with an infected person, Contact with contaminated items like towels or toys.
Impetigo is generally mild, but severity can vary. Seek care if symptoms are severe or persistent.
Duration varies between individuals. Many cases improve with appropriate care, while others may persist longer and require ongoing management.
Some milder cases may improve with rest and self-care. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional.
Consider seeing a clinician if symptoms are severe, persistent, worsening, or if you have any concerns related to general.
Sources
Information based on general medical references such as:
Last reviewed: May 2026