What is Impetigo?

Impetigo is a superficial bacterial skin infection caused by staph or strep that most frequently affects children 2 through 5 years old.

This skin condition usually occurs on their face, legs and arms. In general, impetigo is a mild infection that can appear anywhere on the body and is more common in areas with hot, humid summers and mild winters.

Fact:

Impetigo is most common in children 2 through 5 years old.

Signs and Symptoms of Impetigo

Common symptoms include:

Red, itchy sores that break open and leak a clear fluid or pus for a few days – most commonly occurring around the nose and mouth or on the arms and legs
Crusty yellowish scabs that form over these sores and most often heal without any scarring

Causes of Impetigo

Impetigo is a skin infection caused by one or both of the following bacteria:

Group A streptococcus – which is highly contagious
Staphylococcus aureus

Impetigo Treatments

Our impetigo treatment typically includes topical antibiotics applied directly to the child’s skin or oral antibiotics if the child’s impetigo covers a larger area of their body and/or multiple body parts.