Impetigo
Impetigo is a contagious skin infection, typically not severe, and often resolves within 7 to 10 days with treatment. While it can affect anyone, it’s particularly common in young children.
Identifying Impetigo
- Impetigo typically begins with red sores or blisters, which may be less visible in individuals with brown or black skin.
- The sores or blisters quickly rupture, leaving crusty, golden-brown patches.
- These patches may resemble cornflakes stuck to the skin, expand in size, spread to other areas, itch, and sometimes cause discomfort.
Our Pharmacists can assist individuals aged one year and older. During your consultation, we will inquire about your medical history and symptoms to rule out other conditions or complications requiring urgent referral to a GP or alternative sources of assistance.
Our Pharmacists will assess whether antibiotic cream or oral antibiotics are necessary. These treatments can be provided without a prescription from your doctor.
Precautions and Referrals
If you suspect the infection has spread to others, we advise prompt consultation with a Pharmacist.
Please note that our Pharmacists cannot treat infants under one year of age or patients with bullous impetigo. Additionally, certain medical history factors may preclude treatment. In such cases, our Pharmacist will refer you to your GP or another appropriate source of assistance and treatment.
Please note: Impetigo, under the Pharmacy First / NHS funded service is only available for 1 year and over, therefore we are only able to assist for this age range.
Source: NHS England – February 2024