Impetigo is a common and highly contagious skin infection. A bacteria (usually the “staph” bacteria that also causes staph infections) enters the skin through a cut, scrape, or insect bite. Once this bacteria has entered the body, it results in an itchy, red, and sometimes painful rash. The rash outbreak commonly occurs around the nose and mouth but may spread to the arms, legs, trunk, and buttocks. The sores that make up this rash will eventually burst and crust over. After several days, these sores will begin to crust over.
Impetigo is highly contagious and is easily spread through touch or contact with the clothing and towels of an individual who has been infected. Because it is so contagious, impetigo is the most common skin infection in children between the ages of 2 and 5. Even though children are most commonly affected by impetigo, adults and older children are able to be infected as well. Impetigo outbreaks occur more frequently in warm, humid climates, and in crowded settings such as schools.
Symptoms of impetigo will usually begin within 2-3 days of infection. An individual with impetigo is infectious until sores on the body go away, which may take several weeks; however, antibiotic treatment can shorten the infection’s lifespan to just a few days. Impetigo rarely causes complications but can be easily transmitted unless treated quickly. If you or your child has begun to notice itching, red skin around the nose and mouth, talk to your health care provider. An impetigo infection can keep you out of daily tasks, or your children out of school unless it is promptly treated.