impetigo (school sores)
also known as: school sores, staph infection, golden staph sores
impetigo is a common and highly contagious bacterial skin infection caused by staphylococcus or streptococcus bacteria. it appears as red sores or blisters that burst and develop a golden-brown crust. it is very common in warm weather and spreads easily in childcare and schools.
contagious
yes, highly contagious — until sores have dried up or 24 hours after starting antibiotics
duration
sores heal within 7-10 days with antibiotic treatment
common age
2-6 years — common in childcare and primary school
symptoms
- •red sores or blisters, usually around the nose, mouth, hands, or nappy area
- •blisters that burst and form a golden-brown or honey-coloured crust
- •itchy sores
- •sores may spread to other parts of the body by scratching
- •generally well — impetigo rarely causes fever
- •sores may weep or ooze clear fluid
when to see a doctor
see your GP or call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) if:
- •always see a GP for impetigo — it almost always needs antibiotic treatment
- •sores are spreading despite treatment
- •your child develops a fever
- •your child has sores near the eyes
- •sores are very large or painful
- •dark or red-coloured urine (very rare — possible post-streptococcal complication)
when to call 000
call 000 immediately if:
- •your child develops a high fever with widespread red, painful skin (possible cellulitis or sepsis)
- •your child is unresponsive or extremely unwell
home treatment
- •see your GP — they will likely prescribe antibiotic cream (for mild cases) or oral antibiotics (for widespread cases)
- •wash sores gently with warm soapy water and pat dry
- •cover sores with a waterproof dressing
- •wash hands after touching sores
- •wash towels, linen, and clothing in hot water
- •do not share towels, face cloths, or bedding
- •keep fingernails short to reduce spreading by scratching
prevention
- •wash cuts, scrapes, and insect bites promptly with soap and water
- •keep wounds covered with clean dressings
- •regular handwashing
- •do not share towels or personal items
- •treat eczema and dry skin to prevent skin barrier breakdown
this guide is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. if you are concerned about your child, see your GP, call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84), or in an emergency call 000. mini mode is not affiliated with any government department or health service.