Impetigo

 

This is a skin infection common in children that is usually caused by bacteria called group A streptococcal or Staphylococcus aureus. The infection occurs once bacteria enters through scrapes and insect bites.

 

Symptoms:

• It appears around the mouth, nose or on skin that is not covered by clothes

• The rash can start as a cluster of red bumps or blisters that may eventually ooze or crust over where many germs will live under.

 

How Does it Spread?

• Direct Contact: if someone touches an infected individual

• Indirect Contact: if the germs get onto something else such as bed sheets and then an individual who is not infected touches that object

 

Treatment:

• Doctor will prescribe antibiotics

• Keep your child home from child care or school until they have taken antibiotics for at least one full day. 

 

Source: North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit and http://www.caringforkids.cps.ca