What is the difference between impetigo and cold sores?
In some cases, non-bullous impetigo blisters form in a much larger cluster and burst more quickly than cold sores; however, you should always ask a doctor if you are having trouble making a visual distinction between the two irritations.
Can a cold sore turn into impetigo?
The bacteria that cause impetigo often take advantage of skin that is already damaged by cuts or grazes, insect bites, head lice, scabies, cold sores, or eczema but impetigo can also invade unaffected skin. People with diabetes or low immunity are more susceptible to getting impetigo.
What does non-bullous impetigo look like?
Non-bullous or crusted impetigo is most common. It begins as tiny blisters that eventually burst and leave small wet patches of red skin that may weep fluid. Gradually, a yellowish-brown or tan crust covers the area, making it look like it has been coated with honey or brown sugar.
How long should a child stay out of school with impetigo?
The infection is caused by bacteria and is highly contagious. For that reason, children who have impetigo aren’t allowed to return to school or daycare until they’re no longer contagious – about 24 hours after the start of treatment with antibiotics. Without treatment, impetigo can remain contagious for several weeks.
What does impetigo look like on a child?
Impetigo (im-puh-TIE-go) is a common and highly contagious skin infection that mainly affects infants and young children. It usually appears as reddish sores on the face, especially around the nose and mouth and on the hands and feet. Over about a week, the sores burst and develop honey-colored crusts.
What should I do if my child has impetigo?
Impetigo is usually treated with antibiotic cream, ointment, pills, or liquid. Keeping the skin clean may help to prevent the spread of impetigo. It is very important to wash hands well after caring for your child. Impetigo can spread in a household.
How did my son get impetigo?
The most common cause of impetigo is bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus. Another bacteria source is group A streptococcus. These bacteria lurk everywhere. The most common way for your child to get impetigo is when they have contact with someone who has the infection, such as playing contact sports like wrestling.