Impetigo Information

Impetigo, also called pyoderma or impetigo contagiosa, is a type of bacterial infection that affects the skin. This skin condition begins as red, flat spots or pimple-like bumps surrounded by red skin. After a couple of days, the sores form blisters and fill with pus. They then burst and form a weepy, thick, yellow, gold, or brown crust. On occasion, the blisters may leave a crater in the skin.

 

This is a contagious skin infection. If you think you may have impetigo, information regarding how to prevent spreading this bacterial infection should be reviewed with your healthcare provider. For example, make sure to avoid touching the sores and then touching another part of your body, as this could spread the infection.

 

Impetigo most often occurs in children between the ages of two and five, although older children and adults can also get it. This infection is treated with antibiotics, either applied directly to the skin (topical) or taken by mouth (oral).