Stages of Impetigo

Impetigo follows a predictable course. Knowing the stage helps you know when it is most contagious.

1. Early spots (day 0 to 2)

Small red spots or bumps appear, often near the nose, mouth or on a scratched area. Itching begins.

2. Blisters or pustules

The spots turn into small blisters or pus-filled sores. In the bullous form, larger blisters appear. The fluid is full of bacteria and very contagious.

3. Oozing and rupture

The blisters burst quickly, leaving moist, red, shiny patches.

4. Crusting

The fluid dries into the typical honey-coloured crust. The infection is still contagious while sores are wet or crusted, unless treatment has started.

5. Healing

The crusts fall off and the skin heals, usually without a scar. Some lighter or darker patches may linger for weeks.

Timeline

• Without treatment, impetigo often clears in 2 to 3 weeks.
• With a prescribed antibiotic, improvement is usually seen in 2 to 3 days, and the sores clear in about 7 days.

Spread stage

New sores can appear at any time from scratching and touching, so the rash may be at different stages at once.

Key point

Contagion lasts until the sores have crusted over and dried, or until the doctor says your child has been on treatment long enough.

Before your appointment

Note when the sores began, where they started, whether they ooze or crust, and whether anyone at home or school has similar sores. List any fever, itching, eczema, scabies, diabetes, allergies and medicines tried so far. Take a photo of the rash. Ask about the antibiotic, when it is safe to return to school and the warning signs that mean you should call 112 or 102.