WHAT IS IMPETIGO?
Bacterial skin infection
Caused by Staphylococcus aureus, group A streptococcus, and sometimes Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?
Bullous impetigo leads to fluid-filled blisters on the skin
Non-bullous impetigo causes blisters that pop and then turn into honey/yellow crusts
Ecthyma impetigo causes ulceration with honey/yellow crusting
HOW DO YOU GET INFECTED?
Bacteria enter through broken skin (i.e., cuts, sores, insect bites, etc.)
More common in summer months but can happen throughout the year
IS IT CONTAGIOUS: YES!!!!
HOW DO I PREVENT IT?
Good handwashing
Don't pick at insect bites, scabs, cuts, etc.
Regular bathing/showering
Wash household towels, bedding, etc., to prevent the spread to other family members
TREATMENT
If contained to a small area, impetigo is treated with a topical antibiotic
If the area has spread or affects multiple parts of the body, an oral antibiotic might be necessary
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