What to Know about Impetigo
Golden is such a nice hue - especially when you grill something, you’re looking for a golden-brown color - or baking a pie, you want a nice golden crust. The one place where “golden” and “crust” are not nice is on your skin. If you have school-agers, you may have already guessed it. A golden crust can mean impetigo. It’s so common, and so contagious, and just like with lice, everyone cringes.
Impetigo is a skin infection caused by the organisms Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus pyogenes, or both. These bacteria are always on your skin, but given the opportunity, they go rogue. It’s usually the kids ages two to five who get it, but impetigo can affect anyone. It first presents as red, inflamed skin lesions or bumps that burst, leaving the classic yellow-brown or golden crust behind and it’s usually itchy and painful.
Impetigo spreads very easily through close contact, shared items, and especially among siblings, and children in daycare centers and schools. Sometimes, it’s a secondary infection due to insect bites or other skin trauma. The risk goes up with improper hand and body washing, and lack of facial cleanliness.
Impetigo may go away on its own, and it doesn’t often cause scarring, but remember, it’s very contagious—so you want to treat it. Untreated, the infection can go deeper into the layers of the skin. Oral or topical antibiotics are usually prescribed.
If you see the golden crust under your child’s nose, their chin, or really any place on their skin, a visit to your family healthcare provider is advised. With little ones who are likely to spread the infection during playtime, it’s best to keep them home for 24 to 48 hours after starting antibiotic therapy. Adolescents who can manage their hygiene and follow precautions to minimize spreading don’t need to stay home.
Make sure to use medications as directed and remember how important good hygiene is. During infection, skin care is vital. Soaking the affected skin in soapy warm water and gently removing the crusts can provide some relief from itching and pain. Keeping the areas covered with gauze and medical tape can help stop spreading. Make sure everyone washes their hands more often.
Impetigo is frustrating to parents and teachers alike. Some children just get impetigo a lot. If it’s going on in your home, talk to your healthcare provider. They can make bathtime recommendations that may help. It’s just one of those inevitable daycare and school-age infections that are brought home and shared with everyone.
Best advice, keep your little ones healthy with good handwashing and be prepared should your home receive this unwanted golden gift. Don’t hesitate to call Viaro for care when you need it. Most visits for episodic care, like for impetigo, can be seen on the same or next day.
Teresa Pulvermacher, FNP-C
President, ViaroCare
For questions or comments, contact wellness@viarohealth.com
