Impetigo is a common bacterial skin infection that can affect people of all ages but is most frequently seen in young children. While it can appear anywhere on the body, it is most often found on exposed areas such as the face, arms, and legs. Impetigo often develops when bacteria enter the skin through a break, such as a cut, insect bite, or scratch. It’s especially prevalent among preschool and school-aged children due to close contact and shared items.
What exactly does impetigo look like? It typically begins as small, red, itchy sores. These sores quickly develop into blisters that may burst and ooze fluid or pus. A hallmark characteristic of impetigo is the formation of a honey-colored crust over the sores. While impetigo is generally not painful, it can be itchy, which may lead to scratching and further spread of the infection.
Impetigo is highly contagious. It spreads easily through direct contact with someone who has the infection or by touching items they have used, such as towels, toys, or bedding. This contagiousness is why it can quickly spread in environments like schools and daycare centers.
Treatment and Management of Impetigo
Fortunately, impetigo is usually easily treated. The primary treatment involves antibiotics to kill the bacteria causing the infection. Treatment approaches typically include topical antibiotics applied directly to the skin, and in some cases, oral antibiotics may be necessary for more widespread or severe infections.
Good skin hygiene is also a crucial part of managing impetigo. Gently washing the affected areas daily with soap and water is recommended. Soaking crusted areas with a warm, wet cloth can help soften and remove the crusts, but avoid harsh scrubbing which can irritate the skin and spread the infection. Using an antibacterial soap or cleanser containing chlorhexidine can further help to reduce the spread of bacteria. After washing, an antibiotic ointment should be applied as prescribed by a healthcare provider, usually twice a day. Covering the treated area with a clean bandage can also help prevent further spread.
For some cases, particularly those that are recurrent or difficult to control, dilute bleach baths may be recommended two to three times a week. Bleach baths help to decrease the amount of bacteria on the skin. To prepare a bleach bath, add a small amount of plain bleach to a full tub of water and soak for about 20-30 minutes, followed by a rinse with clean water and application of moisturizer or prescribed topical medications. It’s important to use the correct dilution and consult with a healthcare provider for guidance on bleach baths.
Children with impetigo are generally advised to stay home from school or daycare until they have been on antibiotic treatment for at least 24 hours, or as directed by their healthcare provider, to prevent further spread of the infection.
Helpful Tips for Preventing Impetigo
Preventing impetigo involves practicing good hygiene and taking precautions to avoid spreading bacteria. Keeping fingernails short and clean can help minimize skin damage from scratching and reduce the chance of bacteria spreading. Encouraging frequent hand washing with soap and water or using hand sanitizer, especially after being in public places or touching potentially contaminated surfaces, is essential.
Promptly cleaning any cuts, scrapes, or insect bites and applying a topical antibiotic ointment (such as double antibiotic or bacitracin, but not triple antibiotic ointment in some cases as advised) and covering with a clean bandage can help prevent impetigo from developing. Regularly washing clothes, towels, and bedding in hot water and avoiding sharing personal items with others, especially if someone in the household has impetigo, can also reduce the risk of infection.
If impetigo symptoms do not improve within a few days of starting treatment, it’s important to contact a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. Early and appropriate treatment can help clear up the infection and prevent complications.
