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My son has impetigo - what is it? .
A
Impetigo is a very common skin infection
caused by the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus. The most common form has a medical
name Non-bullous impetigo, also known as impetigo contagiosa or crusted impetigo.
The condition presents firstly as pustules, which burst and create the yellowy
crusty scabs. Often they are said to look like glued-on cornflakes, so not the
most pleasant looking condition to have especially as they do occur on the face.
Nonetheless, on a positive note, they do heal completely without scarring. Impetigo
is very contagious, so to stop the infection spreading to other members of your
family and children take the following measures:
- Do wash the affected areas with
soapy water and use a disposable wipe, not shared flannels or sponges. Keep
a towel to be used only by your son.
- Always encourage your child to
washes his hands regularly after touching a patch of impetigo and make sure
you wash your hands too especially after cleansing the scabs or after applying
antibiotic cream.
- Carry antibacterial hand rub
if soap and water are not to hand
- Try to discourage your son from
scratching the affected areas as this will cause cross infection and damage
to the skin
- Try to keep his and your own
fingernails clean and cut short.
- If you have other children do
not put them in the bath together or share their clothing until the infection
has cleared
- Use disinfectant or bleach products
to clean bathroom sinks and baths after your son has used them.
health visitor
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