Kid Tips - Impetigo

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Impetigo (ihm-puh-TYE-go) is a skin infection caused by bacteria. It is characterized by crusting sores, which are generally itchy and sometimes oozing. A child may get impetigo by direct contact with another child who has it, or by scratching and thus infecting insect bites, cuts, chickenpox, etc. on their own skin. Impetigo is fairly contagious.

Treatment

• Wash your hands before and after caring for your child.
• Soak the crusts with warm soapy water three times a day.
• Blot the infected areas dry with a clean towel. It is preferable to use a paper towel, which can be thrown away. Otherwise, you should launder the towel before using it again, even for the same child.
• If your physician has prescribed medication for your child, use it as directed.
• To prevent spread of the impetigo to other people in the family, make sure that your child only uses his or her own washcloth, towels, linens etc. and do not let other family members use the affected child's belongings. Launder all towels, clothes, etc. after each use.
• Wash personal items (such as combs and brushes) which might have come in contact with the infected areas.
• Keep the child's fingernails short and clean.

Prevention of impetigo is key. It is an unfortunate fact of life that children tend to scratch at insect bites, chickenpox, etc., and this scratching introduces bacteria into the skin. You can help to relieve the itching by using oatmeal baths (Aveeno™), Benadryl™, or other medications that your physician may recommend. Keep your child's fingernails clean and short. This will help to prevent the introduction of bacteria into wounds. If your child does scratch open an insect bite or other spots on his or her skin, apply antibiotic ointment and cover, if possible.

Call your physician's office if:

• The infection is not improving in two or three days.
• The infection appears to be spreading in spite of treatment.
• You have any other questions.
  

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This patient education handout provided courtesy of the
University of Kansas Department of Pediatrics.
Copyright 2003-2006 KU Pediatrics. All rights reserved.