Impetigo

Impetigo, often called school sores, is a contagious bacterial skin infection. It commonly causes sores or blisters that break and form crusts, although the appearance varies. It can spread through contact, so assessment should include treatment advice and practical steps to reduce transmission at home, school or childcare.

How is it different from an ordinary scratch?

A small break in the skin can become infected, but not every crusted patch is impetigo. A clinician considers the pattern, spread and other symptoms. Some forms cause larger blisters. Newborns, widespread disease and people who are generally unwell need particular attention.

Tell the clinician how quickly lesions are appearing and whether other household members have similar sores. Mention eczema, skin injuries and previous episodes. Photographs can show distribution, but increasing pain, swelling or widespread blistering may need an examination.

For the Australian guidance behind this explanation, see Healthdirect Australia: Impetigo - treatments, symptoms and causes - Healthdirect Australia.

How can I reduce spread?

Wash hands before and after caring for affected skin, avoid scratching and do not share towels. Keep fingernails short and follow advice about covering lesions. Ask the clinician or pharmacist how to clean the area and use any prescribed treatment correctly.

Check current school or childcare exclusion advice rather than assuming a child can return as soon as a sore looks dry. Requirements depend on treatment and local guidance. Repeated infections may need a review of the diagnosis and household or skin factors; do not repeatedly use an old prescription without assessment.

When should I seek prompt help?

Fever, rapidly spreading redness, marked pain or a child who seems unwell needs prompt review. A newborn with possible skin infection should be assessed urgently. Call 000 for severe illness, collapse or breathing difficulty. Telehealth can help with initial triage, but an in-person review may be needed to check for deeper infection or another blistering condition.

Where to go next

Read online doctor consultations to understand the relevant service. A doctor decides whether a consultation, examination, referral or another pathway is appropriate for your situation.