A highly contagious bacterial skin infection - most common in young children but can impact any age group and gender.
What is it?
Impetigo is a highly transmissible skin infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus bacteria resulting in red sores or blisters that can develop anywhere on the body, typically beginning on the arms, legs and face.
Predominantly found in young children, impetigo is highly contagious and can impact individuals across all age groups. This condition is marked by its blisters that frequently burst, leak pus, and then form a honey-colored crust.
The infection is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person so prompt intervention for impetigo is essential in preventing its transmission to others.
How is it treated?
If you notice these red sores or blisters on you or your child, early intervention and treatment are critical in reducing the spread and managing symptoms. At Metrolina Dermatology, our board-certified specialists can help diagnose and treat impetigo. Treatment typically involves with topical or oral antibiotic ointments. After starting the treatment, impetigo typically improves within 24-48 hours but it’s important to keep following the treatment plan as directed by your dermatologist.