Public Health
Survey

Help us improve our Health Website

Take 2-3 minutes to tell us what you are looking for today.

Your feedback will help us improve our site.

No thanks
Take the survey
Living > Public Health, Safety

Impetigo

What is it?

Impetigo is a skin infection caused by a bacteria, usually Streptococcus or Staphylococcus. Impetigo can happen at any age, however, it most often affects school-aged children. It is also more common during hot and humid weather and in summer. It is not the result of poor hygiene.

What are the symptoms?

Impetigo begins with a cluster of small blisters usually around the nose or mouth. It can also affect other parts of the body. Once the blisters break, they begin to ooze a thin yellow fluid. This fluid dries quickly over the affected area, leaving a honey-coloured crust. The blisters can be itchy.

How soon do symptoms appear?

Symptoms of impetigo usually begin 4-10 days after contact with the bacteria.

How is it spread?

The infection is spread easily from person to person by direct contact with the fluid from the blisters. It can also be spread by touching clothing, bedding or towels that have been contaminated with discharge from the lesions. This infection can spread fast among persons who spend time in close contact with one another such as family members or children in a child care facility or school.

How long is it contagious?

Persons are contagious as long as the blisters are draining or until 24 hours after treatment begins.

How is it treated?

If these symptoms develop, your doctor will examine the affected area and may take a swab to determine the appropriate antibiotic treatment. Antibiotics may be taken by mouth or spread on the affected area as an ointment.

When can a child return to daycare/school?

Impetigo can spread rapidly between children. Children and food handlers should start on an antibiotic and take as directed for at least 24 hours prior to returning to school or daycare to reduce the risk of spread to others.

How can it be prevented?

  • Wash hands well and often
  • Cover affected areas
  • Clean the rash with soap and water then cover loosely with gauze, a bandage, or clothing
  • Clean hands after touching the affected area
  • Use separate towels and washcloths to prevent spread to other household members
  • Wear gloves when applying topical ointment and wash hands afterwards
  • Avoid contact with newborn babies until no longer contagious

This information is intended to provide general health-related information about Impetigo.  It is not intended to replace medical consultation by your physician and/or other health care professionals.

Sources: Red Book 2006, 26th Edition, American Academy of Pediatrics. Control of Communicable Diseases Manual, 2008, 19th Edition, David L. Heymann.


Did you find what you were looking for today?