How to Prevent Impetigo from Spreading

Why Does Impetigo Spread So Easily?

Impetigo is caused by bacteria that live on the skin. When the infection develops, bacteria can be present in the fluid, crusts, and affected skin.

Because the bacteria can be transferred so easily, impetigo is considered highly contagious.

This is particularly true in environments where people are in close contact with one another.

How Is Impetigo Passed Between People?

The infection can spread whenever bacteria move from an infected area of skin to another person.

Children are particularly susceptible because they often play closely together and may touch their faces frequently.

Can Impetigo Spread to Other Parts of the Body?

Yes. Impetigo can spread beyond the original area of infection.

This often happens when someone scratches the affected area, touches the rash repeatedly, or does not wash their hands after contact.

The bacteria can be transferred to nearby skin, leading to new patches of infection.

This is one reason why avoiding scratching is so important.

Preventing Spread at Home

Simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk of transmission within the household.

Preventing Spread in Children

Children are one of the groups most commonly affected by impetigo.

Prompt treatment may also help reduce the risk of spread to classmates and siblings.

Preventing Spread at Work or School

Adults with impetigo should also take steps to minimise transmission.

Depending on the nature of your work, additional precautions may sometimes be necessary.

If you are unsure, our pharmacy team can provide further advice.

Should You Cover Impetigo?

Covering affected areas may help reduce the likelihood of direct contact with the infection.

Where practical, loose dressings or clothing can help protect the affected skin.

However, dressings should not cause irritation or interfere with treatment.

Why Good Hand Hygiene Matters

Hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of impetigo.

Hands can easily transfer bacteria from the affected area to other parts of the body, other people, and shared surfaces.

Good hand hygiene helps protect both the affected individual and those around them.

How Treatment Helps Reduce Spread

Treating impetigo promptly may help bring the infection under control and reduce the risk of passing it on.

The sooner treatment is started, the sooner the infection can begin to improve.

Under the NHS Pharmacy First service, eligible patients with suspected impetigo may be assessed and supplied treatment where appropriate without needing a GP appointment.

Early treatment can help limit the spread of infection within households, schools, and workplaces.

What to Do Next

If you think you or a family member may have impetigo, it is important to seek advice promptly.

Early assessment can help confirm the diagnosis, reduce the spread of infection, and ensure appropriate treatment is provided where needed.

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 rash that is spreading, crusting, or affecting other members of the household, contact our pharmacy team and we will be happy to help.