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Impetigo Information

We have learned of a case of impetigo in our school community. Steps have been taken to clean and disinfect our classrooms. The health and safety of our school community remains our priority.  Please take a moment to read this fact sheet and contact your healthcare provider or school nurse if you have any additional questions.

 

What is Impetigo?

  • Impetigo is a very common, contagious bacterial skin infection that mainly affects young children. It is caused by Streptococcal or Staphylococcal bacteria. 

Who gets Impetigo?

  • Impetigo can affect anyone regardless of age, sex, race, socioeconomic status or standards of personal hygiene.

How is Impetigo spread?

  • Impetigo is contagious and can spread to anyone who touches infected skin or items that have touched infected skin (such as clothing, towels, and bed linens). It can be itchy, so kids also can spread the infection when they scratch it and then touch other parts of their body.

What are the symptoms of Impetigo?

  • Small, red pimples or fluid-filled blisters with crusted, yellow scabs on the skin.
  • The bumps can be, but are not always, itchy.
  • Sores can be found anywhere on the body, but are most often found on the arms, legs, mouth and nose. 
  • It can take up to 10 days for sores to appear after exposure. 

How is Impetigo diagnosed?

  • In most cases, doctors can diagnose impetigo based on how the rash looks. Occasionally, they may need further testing to determine. 

What is the treatment for Impetigo?

  • Impetigo is typically treated with antibiotics, either as a cream/ointment to put on skin or a medicine taken by mouth.
  • After antibiotic treatment begins, healing should start within a few days. It's important to make sure that your child takes the medicine as prescribed. 
  • Students should remain home until 24 hours after treatment has been started or as directed by their healthcare provider. They should also cover sores on exposed skin. 

How can I prevent Impetigo from spreading at home?

  • Wash infected areas and cover any open sores or wounds
  • Proper surface sanitation
  • Regular and thorough handwashing.
  • Don’t share towels or bedding. 

How can I get more information about Impetigo?

  • Contact your healthcare provider.
  • Call your local health department.
  • Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website or KidsHealth.org