• Medications
• Infections
• Conjunctivitis
• Fifth Disease
• Impetigo
• Influenza
  

What is it? Impetigo is a contagious bacterial skin infection most common in young children. Impetigo typically begins as tiny blisters that rupture easily; the clear, yellow fluid discharge dries and forms sticky, honey-colored crusts. It appears most frequently on exposed sites, such as the face (usually around corners of the mouth), scalp, arms, and legs, and sometimes at the site of a cut, scratch, or insect bite. If you suspect Impetigo, call your child's doctor. If your child has Impetigo, he/she will have to remain out of school for 24 hours after treatment has begun. Impetigo is usually treated with a 10-day course of antibiotics. Do not scratch the impetigo lesions; they are loaded with bacteria. The infection can easily be spread to another part of the body or to another person through direct contact or shared items (such as clothing, washcloths, or towels). Frequent hand washing and avoidance of sharing towels and clothing are essential in preventing the transmission of impetigo to others.