Is Impetigo Contagious and How Can You Prevent It?

Impetigo is a common and highly contagious skin infection, often affecting children, though adults can also contract it. It is caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes, leading to red sores, blisters, or honey-coloured crusts, typically appearing on the face, arms, or legs. It spreads easily through skin-to-skin contact, shared items, or even airborne droplets in some cases.  

 

In this blog, we will know about how impetigo spreads and what effective steps you can take to prevent it. 

Understanding Impetigo: Causes, Types, and Risk Factors

Before we understand how impetigo spreads, it’s important to know its type, what causes it, and who is more likely to contract it.

Types of Impetigo

Let’s begin by looking at the two main types of impetigo and what triggers them:

• Non-bullous impetigo: The most common form, marked by red sores that burst and leave a honey-coloured crust.

• Bullous impetigo: Less common, it presents as larger blisters typically caused by Staphylococcus aureus.

Causes of Impetigo

Impetigo is caused by bacteria, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. These bacteria can enter the skin through: 

• Minor cuts, insect bites, or scrapes.
• Skin conditions like eczema or dermatitis. 
• Broken skin from scratching due to allergies or irritation. 

Once inside, the bacteria multiply and cause infection, leading to blisters or sores. 

Who Is Most Likely to Get Infected?

Certain groups are more prone to impetigo due to environmental and personal factors: 

• Children aged 2 to 5, particularly in group settings.
• People with cuts, eczema, insect bites, or other skin damage. 
• Individuals in close-contact environments like schools or gyms.

Is Impetigo Contagious? Understanding the Spread

Yes, impetigo is highly contagious, especially before the use of antibiotics. Here’s how it typically spreads and affects others. 

How Does Impetigo Spread from Person to Person?

The bacteria responsible can transfer quickly through the following actions: 

• Touching infected sores directly. 
• Sharing personal items such as razors, towels, or clothing.
•  Contact with surfaces touched by an infected person.

Common Ways People Contract It in Daily Life

Let’s look at some everyday situations where transmission is more likely:

• Children sharing toys or school supplies.
• Athletes using shared sports gear.
• Family members unknowingly using the same towels or bedding.

How to Prevent and Treat Impetigo

Once diagnosed, impetigo is treatable, and its spread is preventable. A few practical steps can help significantly.

How to Stop the Spread of Impetigo at Home or School

Preventing the transmission of impetigo involves maintaining hygiene and limiting contact. Consider these steps:

• Wash hands regularly, especially after touching sores.
• Avoid sharing towels, bedding, or clothing.
• Keep sores covered with clean, dry dressings.
• Stay home from school or work for 48 hours after treatment starts.
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces and items.
• Wash infected fabrics daily at high temperatures.

Impetigo Treatment and When to Use It

Treatment is straightforward but must be timely. Here's what usually works best:

• Hydrogen peroxide cream for localised infections.
• Antibiotic cream or oral antibiotics for widespread infection.
• Always follow GP or pharmacy advice to ensure full recovery and avoid reinfection.

Where to Get Trusted Help for Impetigo Treatment

Impetigo is unpleasant but manageable. With early recognition and a proactive approach, you can limit its spread and support quicker healing. Pharmacies, like Maple Leaf Pharmacy, offer treatment for impetigo under the Pharmacy First scheme, meaning you may not need to see a GP.

For fast and trusted solutions, visit Maple Leaf Pharmacy for expert guidance and effective care.