A child with impetigo has a skin rash that looks like a group of blisters or red bumps.

There may be fluid oozing out of the blisters or they may be covered with a golden yellow crust. The rash is usually around the nose, mouth or parts of the skin that are not covered by clothes.

A doctor can tell if a child has impetigo.

To find out which germ is causing the infection, the doctor needs to take a sample or swab from the rash. The infection can be treated with antibiotic cream or pill.

Impetigo is spread by direct contact with a sore or when someone touches the rash and then touches another person.

To stop the spread of impetigo it is important to wash hands after touching the rash. Antibiotics can also stop the spread of impetigo.

How to wash your hands

• Watch your child for signs of impetigo if another child has it.
• Call your doctor if you think your child has impetigo.
• Make sure everyone in the house washes their hands carefully with soap and running water after touching infected skin. Do not share facecloths or towels.
• It is important for the child to take all the antibiotic even after the rash has gone away.

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