Impetigo
Impetigo contagiosa is a skin infection caused by staphylococcus and/or streptococcus bacteria. Many different types of bacteria normally live on the skin, however, they rarely enter the body. If the skin is damaged or broken somehow, such as from a bite or other injury, bacteria may enter and infect the person.
Symptoms
Impetigo usually starts as small red areas that may go unnoticed until a blister or bubble appears on the red base. The area usually ruptures, leaving a yellowish or honey-colored crust. It most commonly occurs on the face, but can occur anywhere including the underarms and groin. In some cases, lymph nodes near the infection may become swollen.
Transmission
Impetigo is very contagious. It is most frequently transmitted via the hands, although the fingers can also spread it to other parts of the body or to other people. Less commonly, it can be spread by sharing of contaminated towels or clothing. Symptoms usually develop within 2 to 10 days of exposure.
Treatment
Wash infected areas using soapy water and apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment to the lesion three to four times daily. If the sites are many and/or large, an oral antibiotic may be needed to kill the bacteria. If a prescription drug is prescribed by a clinician, complete the entire course; ending early may make recurrence more likely.
Prevention
- Frequent hand-washing is the most important. Wash hands with soap and water for 15 seconds and thoroughly clean all parts of the hands before rinsing.
- Avoid touching the infected area.
- Do not shave the area until it is healed.
- Wash all towels, sheets, pillowcases, or clothing which may have come into contact with the infected areas in hot water. Razors used during the infection should be replaced.
- Do not share towels or clothing with others.
- Avoid close personal contact with others until the infection has healed.
- Avoid contact with newborn babies and avoid school, daycare, or food handling until receiving permission from a health care provider or until 24 hours after starting the antibiotic treatment.
- To prevent future infection wash hands frequently, especially in warm weather. Take particular care to wash abrasions and insect bites.
When to contact a clinician
If the infection is widespread or if new areas develop, contact a clinician for more specific recommendations on treatment.
Very rarely there is an associated kidney inflammation with a symptom of blood in the urine. A fever is not normally present in uncomplicated impetigo. If either of these symptoms develops, contact a clinician immediately.
