IMPETIGO - Impetigo

Impetigo is a superficial skin infection caused by bacteria. This infection is highly contagious.

Impetigo primarily affects children and usually develops on the face. However, it can also occur in adults and in other areas (trunk, limbs). Impetigo can therefore appear anywhere!

How does impetigo start?

Impetigo vulgaris begins with a small red spot that quickly turns into a weeping lesion covered with a yellowish crust.

The lesions tend to spread, often due to scratching caused by intense itching.

The liquid and crusts contain millions of bacteria responsible for spreading and transmitting the disease.

Transmission can occur through direct contact or via contaminated objects (toys, utensils, etc.).

Bullous Impetigo

Bullous impetigo is distinguished from impetigo vulgaris by the appearance of painful epidermal bumps (blisters), filled with liquid, that develop on the surface of the skin. When these blisters burst, they turn into thick, brownish crusts with a reddish border.

What bacteria are involved in impetigo?

The two most common bacteria responsible are Staphylococcus aureus and Group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus. These bacteria can be present together or separately.

What are the factors that favor impetigo?

• Heat
• Humidity
• Lack of hygiene
• Insect bites
• Pre-existing skin conditions (eczema, contact dermatitis, fungal infection, etc.)

What is the treatment for impetigo?

Impetigo is treated with topical antibiotics for about a week (or according to your doctor's advice).

After cleaning the crusts with a disinfectant or soap, an antibiotic cream should be applied to the lesions and their surrounding areas several times a day.

The antibiotic currently recommended is fusidic acid (Fucidin®). Mupirocin (Bactroban®) can be used but should be reserved for treating multi-resistant infections, and this second antibiotic requires a prescription.

In severe or widespread cases, the doctor may sometimes prescribe oral antibiotics for a week.

How to prevent contamination?

• Avoid sending your child to daycare or school until the lesions are dry and the crusts have disappeared. Also, inform the school or daycare as other children may have been contaminated.
• Wash the sick person's hands and those of their family members regularly with a disinfecting soap.
• Clean utensils, toys, tables, chairs, and toilets thoroughly. Do not share towels, bed linens, or kitchen utensils. Use a separate washcloth and towel each time to clean the patient.
• Avoid intimate contact with the sick person.