Everything You Need to Know About Impetigo

What Is Impetigo?

Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that affects the outer layers of the skin.

It commonly causes red sores, small blisters, oozing skin lesions, and yellow or golden-brown crusts.

Although impetigo is most common in children, adults can also develop the infection.

Because it spreads easily through contact, outbreaks can sometimes occur within households, schools, nurseries, and other settings where people are in close contact.

What Causes Impetigo?

Impetigo is usually caused by bacteria entering the skin through small breaks or areas of damage.

The bacteria most commonly responsible are Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes.

Once the bacteria enter the skin, the infection can develop and spread to nearby areas.

What Does Impetigo Look Like?

Impetigo often starts as small red sores or spots. As the infection develops, these areas may change in appearance.

The crusts are often described as having a honey-coloured appearance. This distinctive appearance is one of the most recognisable signs of impetigo.

Some people experience only a small localised area of infection, while others may develop multiple lesions that spread over time.

Who Can Get Impetigo?

Anyone can develop impetigo, but some people are more likely to be affected.

Warm weather can also increase the likelihood of impetigo because bacteria tend to thrive in warm, humid conditions.

How Does Impetigo Spread?

Impetigo is highly contagious.

It can also spread to other parts of the body through scratching.

Because of this, good hygiene and prompt treatment are important in helping control the infection.

Is Impetigo Serious?

Most cases of impetigo are mild and respond well to treatment.

However, the infection can become troublesome because it spreads easily, can affect multiple family members, may continue to worsen without treatment, and can cause discomfort and irritation.

Although complications are uncommon, it is generally advisable to seek treatment rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen.

Can Impetigo Go Away on Its Own?

In some cases, impetigo may eventually improve without treatment.

However, untreated infections may last longer, spread to other areas of skin, spread to other people, and cause increasing discomfort.

For these reasons, treatment is often recommended when impetigo is diagnosed.

Prompt treatment can help clear the infection more quickly and reduce the risk of transmission.

Treatment Options for Impetigo

Treatment depends on the severity and extent of the infection.

Treatment may be supplied where appropriate following assessment.

The most suitable option will depend on individual circumstances and current clinical guidance.

Our pharmacy team can explain what treatments may be available during your consultation.

How to Prevent Impetigo From Spreading

Simple hygiene measures can help reduce transmission.

Following these measures can help protect both the affected individual and those around them.

When Should You Seek Treatment?

You should seek advice if symptoms suggest impetigo or if the rash is spreading or worsening.

Early assessment can help confirm whether impetigo is the cause and determine whether treatment may be appropriate.

How Pharmacy First Can Help

Under the NHS Pharmacy First service, trained pharmacists can assess eligible patients with suspected impetigo.

Many patients can access assessment and treatment directly through the pharmacy without needing a GP appointment.

What to Do Next

If you have noticed a spreading rash, crusting skin lesions, or the characteristic honey-coloured crusts associated with impetigo, do not ignore the symptoms.

Early assessment can help reduce the spread of infection and ensure you receive appropriate treatment.

Our pharmacy offers confidential NHS Pharmacy First consultations for impetigo and can assess whether treatment may be suitable for you.

If you are concerned about a possible impetigo infection, contact our pharmacy team and we will be happy to help.