Impetigo: When School Sores Crash the Party

Impetigo, also known as school sores, is a highly contagious skin infection that mainly affects young children, although adults can get it too. It’s caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria. The infection usually starts as small red spots or blisters that quickly burst, leaving a honey-colored crust. Although it looks nasty, it’s usually painless, but the itching can drive you (or your kid) up the wall.

Impetigo is infamous for spreading like wildfire in schools and daycare centers, thanks to close contact and the irresistible urge kids have to scratch. The good news? It’s easily treatable with the right care and precautions.

Pathophysiology: What’s Happening on the Skin?

1. Bacterial Invasion: Impetigo starts when bacteria enter the skin through minor cuts, insect bites, or even healthy skin.

2. Colonization and Multiplication: The bacteria rapidly multiply, releasing toxins that break down skin cells, causing blisters or crusting.

3. Formation of Crusts: The fluid from the blisters dries, forming the characteristic honey-colored crusts.

4. Spreading the Infection: Scratching the sores or touching them spreads the bacteria to other body parts or people. This makes impetigo highly contagious.

Do You Really Need Antibiotics?

Yes, antibiotics are the first-line treatment for impetigo because they help reduce symptoms, shorten the duration, and limit the spread to others. However, the type of antibiotic depends on the severity and extent of the infection:

• Topical Antibiotics: For mild, localized impetigo. Mupirocin or fusidic acid ointments are commonly prescribed.

• Oral Antibiotics: Necessary for widespread or severe infections. Options include flucloxacillin or cephalexin.

Important Note: Completing the full course of antibiotics is crucial, even if symptoms improve, to prevent antibiotic resistance.

Lifestyle Strategies to Prevent the Spread of Impetigo

1. Good Hygiene is Key

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after touching sores.

• Keep fingernails short to minimize damage from scratching.

• Cover sores with waterproof dressings to reduce the risk of spreading.

2. No Sharing is Caring

• Avoid sharing towels, clothing, bedding, or toys.

• Launder contaminated clothing and bedding separately in hot water.

3. Keep Kids Home from School

• Children with impetigo should stay home from school or daycare until 24 hours after starting antibiotic treatment.

• Ensure all sores are covered before they return to school to minimize contagion risk.

Book Your Medico Telehealth Consultation Now

Not sure if those sores are impetigo or something more serious? Concerned about spreading the infection to others? Medico Telehealth is here to help you navigate the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of school sores. Book a consultation today and get expert advice without leaving home.

For more information you can read more here: Patient Information

This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical concerns or emergencies.