Impetigo
What it is
Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that causes clusters of small red sores, often covered with a yellow crust. Impetigo spreads easily, especially in childcare settings, and is more common in warm, humid weather.
What you can do at home
What to do
- Soak the sores in soapy water at least twice a day.
- Remove any crusts that come off easily. Do not pull off crusts that are still attached to the sore.
- Avoid scratching.
If an antibiotic cream is prescribed
- Follow the healthcare professional’s instructions.
- Apply the antibiotic cream to the sores.
- Cover the sores with a dry bandage until they have dried.
To prevent spreading the infection
- Wash hands often.
- Do not share towels or washcloths.
- Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects.
- Cough and sneeze into the elbow or a tissue.
When to seek medical attention
The sores get larger 48 hours after treatment begins
Red streaks extend from the sores
A blister or sore is more than 2.5 cm wide
The skin around a sore becomes painful, red, swollen, or warm, or contains pus (yellow-green fluid)
The affected person has eczema (atopic dermatitis) or is immunocompromised
For children under 1 year of age:
consulter si des symptômes apparaissent après un contact avec une personne atteinte
Need help?
Call Info-Santé at 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time.
Go to the pharmacy for advice on medications or treatment.
Make an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC.
If you do not have a family doctor, go to gap.soinsvirtuels or call 811, Option 3.
When to go to the hospital right away
Red streaks extending from the sores, along with:
- signs of an infection that is getting worse quickly such as skin that becomes red, swollen, or very painful
- fever, chills or shaking
- rapid heartbeat, or palpitations
Rapid changes in general condition, such as:
- unusual fatigue or difficulty staying awake
- reduced responsiveness
- confusion, agitation or unusual behaviour
- hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not real)
- reduced appetite or thirst
- difficulty carrying out normal daily activities