Impetigo

Overview

It spreads by touch and shared towels.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Honey-colored crusty sores

Less common

• Itchy

When to get medical care

Causes

Bacteria in broken skin.

Does it spread or run in families?

• Yes, it can spread from person to person.
• How it spreads: touch.
• Don't share towels, hats, combs, or bedding while it's being treated.

Who is more likely to get it

• Children

Possible complications

• Cellulitis

Diagnosis

A clinician can tell by looking.

The exam

A skin check.

Treatment

Clean and treat.

Self-care

• Wash gently with soap and water
• Cover sores
• Keep nails short
• Don't share towels

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To prevent:

• Handwashing

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a dermatologist (skin doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

• Children can go back to school 24 hours after starting antibiotics. Keep sores covered.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some infections can pass to the baby during pregnancy or birth. Tell your provider if you've been exposed.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Clears quickly.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Impetigo