Causes

Impetigo occurs more often in the summer and affects children more often than adults. Touching or picking the sores can spread the bacteria to other parts of the body or to other people.

Symptoms

Impetigo starts as a small, itchy, water-filled blister that turns into a yellow pus-filled sore. After rupturing, it appears to have a honey-colored crust.

Treatment

With quick and careful home treatment, impetigo can be brought under control in several days. If you think your child has impetigo, contact your doctor. He or she will prescribe a medication to help heal the infection.

Self-Care

• Apply Domboro solution (available without a prescription) to sores twice a day for 10 minutes.
• Remove crusts from sores with a cotton swab. Then, with a separate swab, apply Bacitracin or another topical antibiotic medication.
• Wash your hands well with antibacterial soap and water after cleaning sores and applying ointment.
• Don’t cover the area with an adhesive bandage unless the sore is in an area where the scab may rub off. If needed to keep children from scratching, cover with a dry gauze pad and keep the tape as far from the sore as possible.
• Make sure everyone in the household uses separate towels, washcloths, and bath water. Wash bedding, towels, and clothes with Lysol or bleach. Dry on high heat or in the sun.
• Call your doctor if sores do not improve after 3 days of home care.