Impetigo

Impetigo is a common bacterial skin infection that most often affects infants and young children, though anyone can get it. It typically causes red sores or blisters that break open, ooze, and form a characteristic honey-colored crust, frequently around the nose and mouth.

The infection is caused by staph or strep bacteria that enter through a break in the skin, such as a cut, insect bite, or area of eczema. Impetigo is contagious and spreads through close contact and by touching contaminated items.

Good hygiene helps prevent spread, including gentle washing, covering sores, and not sharing towels or clothing. Keeping fingernails short and avoiding scratching also reduces the chance of spreading the bacteria.

Impetigo is usually treated with prescription antibiotic cream for mild cases or oral antibiotics for more widespread infection. Prompt treatment clears the infection and lowers the risk of spreading it to others, so it is worth seeing a clinician if impetigo is suspected.