Impetigo
What is impetigo?
Impetigo is an infection of the surface of the skin. It can be caused by Staphylococcus or Streptococcus bacteria that makes its way into an area often via a scratch, insect bite, abrasion, or other small injury.
What does it look like?
It starts out as a small red pimple, then can look like a fluid filled blister. Finally, it gets to the classic look of honey crusting covering the area. If untreated the infected area will widen.
How did my kid get it?
A lot of the time a child gets impetigo by being very close to another child with it, or touching a surface soon after another child who has it. A child can spread it on their own skin by picking or scratching at the infected area, then touching another place on their body.
What do I do if my child gets impetigo?
Twice a day wash the area carefully with soap and water, gently removing the crusty scabs. Put antibacterial ointment or cream on the area, then loosely cover with a bandage. Keep covered with the bandage especially when your child will be in school, or around other children.
If the infected area is too large, or is not getting better with OTC (over the counter) creams, then call your pediatrician for treatment. Your child may need prescription strength antibiotic ointment, or oral antibiotics at that point.
Make sure you, or anyone else who touches the infected area washes their hands afterward. Don’t share towels, wash cloths, or pillows while the infection is healing. Try to wash the sheets and other linens frequently.
How can I prevent my child from getting impetigo?
All children are going to end up with small insect bites or cuts at some point, which can lead to impetigo. The key to reducing the chances is cleaning the area, and trying to keep it clean while it heals. Ideally we would teach children to not touch or scratch at sores or cuts, but keeping your child’s fingernails short can help reduce the damage.
Impetigo often occurs under the nose because rubbing or wiping frequently with tissue can hurt the skin. Try to use a soft wet cloth, or softer tissues if possible.
When can my child go back to school or daycare?
Very small spots can be covered with a bandage and the child sent to school. For larger areas, or if it can’t be covered, then your child may go back after 24 hours of treatment with antibiotic cream or oral medication. Even if you are treating the area, keep it covered while in school if possible.
If your child is in a sport, it may take up to three days of treatment for them to be able to return to play depending on the size, and what kind of activity it is. Check with the coach for specifics.
Bottom line.
Impetigo is common in younger children. It’s crusty and icky, but doesn’t really ever cause anything more serious. Check with your pediatrician if you need help treating it.
Links.
Skin conditions and sports participation.
