Impetigo

What is impetigo?

mpetigo is caused by bacteria—usually Staphylococcus aureus (staph) or Streptococcus pyogenes (strep)—that enter the skin through small cuts, scrapes, insect bites, or eczema flare-ups. Children with conditions like eczema are more vulnerable because of frequent scratching and a compromised skin barrier..

During summer, it’s common for campers to return from Connecticut day or sleepaway camps with crusted, itchy sores around the nose, mouth, or hands—classic signs of impetigo acquired through contact sports, bug bites, or shared gear.

Athletes – regardless of age – who play contact sports are also more susceptible to these bacterial infections.

How to Recognize Impetigo

The hallmark sign of impetigo is a cluster of yellow-gold or “honey-colored” crusts. These usually begin as red bumps or small blisters that break open and form scabs.

Commonly affected areas include:

• Around the nose and mouth
• Hands, arms, and legs
• Diaper area in infants and toddlers

A less common form—bullous impetigo—causes larger, fluid-filled blisters that may rupture and crust over. These sores are typically not painful, but they may itch and spread quickly if scratched.

Is impetigo dangerous?

In most cases, impetigo is not serious and responds well to treatment. However, if left untreated, the infection can spread to other areas of the body or to others—especially in group settings like:

• Daycare or preschool
• Sports camps
• After-school programs
• Households with multiple children

Rarely, untreated impetigo can lead to deeper skin infections or minor scarring.

How Is Impetigo Treated?

While mild cases may resolve with gentle cleansing using soap and water, most children require medical treatment to control the infection and prevent spreading it to others.

Treatment typically includes:

• Topical antibiotics (e.g., mupirocin) for localized infections
• Oral antibiotics for more widespread or resistant cases
• Daily cleansing with warm water and mild soap
• Covering lesions with clean bandages to reduce the risk of transmission

Tips for Parents: How to Prevent Impetigo from Spreading

Especially after camps or sports activities, follow these simple precautions:

• Encourage regular hand and face washing
• Keep fingernails trimmed short to minimize scratching
• Disinfect shared items like athletic gear, toys, and helmets
• Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered
• Avoid sharing towels, washcloths, hats, or personal items
• Wash clothing, towels, and bedding in hot water

If your child returns from summer camp with crusted or oozing sores, it’s a good idea to get them checked promptly.

When to See a Dermatologist

If your child has a rash that’s worsening or not healing, or if the infection seems to be spreading, it’s time to consult a dermatologist. Prompt treatment reduces the risk of complications and limits the spread to others.

At Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut, we specialize in pediatric skin care—including impetigo, eczema, molluscum, and more. We offer same-day and next-day appointments for fast relief.

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