impetigo (school sores)
by catherine alderstein·
exclusion period
exclude until appropriate antibiotic treatment has started. sores on exposed skin must be covered with a watertight dressing.
symptoms
- •red sores or blisters, usually around the nose and mouth
- •sores that burst and develop a yellow-brown crust
- •itchy sores
- •may spread to other body parts through scratching
when can your child return to childcare?
the child can return 24 hours after starting antibiotic treatment, provided any sores on exposed skin (face, hands, arms, legs) are covered with a watertight dressing.
do siblings or contacts need to stay home?
contacts are not excluded unless they develop symptoms
treatment notes for parents
see a GP — impetigo usually needs antibiotic cream or oral antibiotics. keep sores clean and covered. wash hands frequently and do not share towels. impetigo is highly contagious through direct contact.
view all exclusion periods
the complete illness-by-illness guide
this guide is for informational purposes only. exclusion periods are based on the NHMRC's Staying Healthy guidelines and were accurate at the time of writing. always consult your child's GP or childcare centre for specific advice. mini mode is not a medical service.