Impetigo is a common yet highly infectious skin condition that usually affects children. Impetigo generally appears as red sores on the face, around the mouth area or on the hands and feet. The sores range in size, starting as small blisters, that increase in size, eventually rupturing, revealing red moist skin for a few days. As they dry, the sore is covered in a yellow crust.

Itching and soreness is usually mild with impetigo.

An uncommon form of the condition is called Bullous impetigo, the blisters usually occur on the body of the child or infant and are much larger.

A more serious form of the condition is called ecthyma, the infection penetrated deeper into the skin, and causes painful or pus-filled sores that can turn into ulcers. This can leave permanent marks on the skin.

Impetigo is caused by the spread of bacteria by someone already suffering with the condition. It can be passed easily, from such things are toys, clothing, towels, and physical touch. Your child is more likely to contract impetigo if they suffer from other skin conditions such as eczema or fungal infections.  

Impetigo is easily treated, typically with antibiotic cream, applied directly to the skin. It may be necessary to soak the affected areas of the skin with warm water to help soften the scabs and allow the cream to penetrate the skin. It is important to keep your child at home whilst they are still infectious. This will help prevent the spread of the infection to other children. Wearing gloves whilst applying the cream and washing your hands, clothes, bedlinen and towels will also help prevent spread the infection.