Impetigo is a superficial infection of the skin, caused by streptococcus bacteria (60%) or by staphylococcus bacteria (40%). It is more common in the summer when the skin is often broken by cuts, scrapes and insect bites.

Signs and Symptoms:

	Sore less than 1 inch in diameter.
	Sores begin as small red bumps then rapidly change to cloudy blisters, then pimples and finally sores
	Sores are often covered by a soft yellow-brown scab
	Sores increase in number
	First sores are usually near the nose or mouth

Treatment:

Most children with impetigo need an antibiotic by mouth as well as an antibiotic ointment applied locally to sores (as directed below).

The bacteria live underneath the soft scabs. Until these are removed, the antibiotic ointment cannot get through to the bacteria to kill them. Scabs can be soaked off using warm water with a tiny amount of bleach in it. (1 tablespoon of bleach to 2 quarts of water) The area needs to be gently rubbed, but it should not be scrubbed. A little bleeding is common if you remove the crust.

You can buy betadine ointment or bacitracin ointment to apply to sores after they are cleaned. Apply for 7 days or longer if necessary. Wash areas daily with an antimicrobial soap. Any new crust that forms should not be removed since it delays healing.

Impetigo is quite contagious. Be sure that other people in the family do not use the infected child's towel or washcloth. Your child should be kept out of school until he has taken his antibiotics for 24 hours or has used the antibiotic ointment for 48 hours.

With proper treatment, the skin will be completely healed in 1 week. Some blemishes will remain for 6-12 months, but scars are unusual unless the child picks the sores.

Call your doctor if:

	Urine is red or cola colored
	Face becomes bright red or tender to touch
	Other people in the family develop impetigo
	A fever or sore throat occur
	You have questions or concerns

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