Impetigo
Impetigo is a contagious bacterial skin infection. It is most common in young children but can affect anyone. It is usually mild, but it spreads easily, so it is worth treating.
- Without treatment
- Can take 2 to 3 weeks to clear
- Contagious
- Yes — until sores have crusted over and healed
- Pharmacy First
- Ages 1 and over
What it looks like
- Red sores or blisters, most often around the nose and mouth but they can appear anywhere
- The sores burst quickly and leave golden-brown crusts
- Itching, and sometimes soreness
- Sores that spread to nearby skin as it is touched or scratched
- Sometimes larger fluid-filled blisters, which are more common in babies and young children
How it spreads
Impetigo spreads through direct contact with the sores, or by sharing towels, flannels, clothes and bedding. It often starts where the skin is already broken — for example by a cut, an insect bite, eczema or a cold sore.
What you can do yourself
- Gently wash the sores with soap and water, and dry them with a separate towel.
- Do not pick or scratch the sores or crusts. Keep children's nails short.
- Wash your hands well after touching the sores, and wash towels, flannels, clothes and bedding on a hot wash.
- Do not share towels, flannels or bedding.
- Keep away from newborn babies and anyone with a weakened immune system until the sores have healed.
- Stay off school, nursery or work until the sores have crusted over and healed, or until 48 hours after starting antibiotic treatment.
How PRX Pharmacy can help
Through Pharmacy First, our pharmacists can assess impetigo in anyone aged 1 or over without a GP appointment. They will look at the affected skin and how widespread it is. Treatment is usually a cream or, if the impetigo is more widespread, antibiotics. They will also explain how to stop it spreading to others.
Babies under 1 with impetigo should be seen by a doctor.
When to get medical help
Call 999 or go to A&E if:
- • There are signs of a serious infection: confusion or unusual drowsiness, fast breathing, cold, clammy or mottled skin, or you feel extremely unwell
Contact your GP practice or call 111 the same day if:
- • It is a baby under 1 year old
- • The redness, swelling or pain is spreading quickly, or the skin feels hot (this may be cellulitis)
- • You have a fever or feel generally unwell
- • The impetigo is widespread
- • It has not improved after about 7 days of treatment
- • You have a weakened immune system
- • It keeps coming back
If you are ever worried and unsure, ask us or call 111. Trust your instincts — it is always better to ask.
This guide is general information written by the PRX Pharmacy team. It does not replace advice from a pharmacist or doctor who knows your medical history.
Last updated 24 September 2026. Clinically reviewed by Milan Patel, Pharmacist on 24 September 2026.
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