CHILD’S HEALTH/SKIN DISORDERS: IMPETIGO (SCHOOL SORES)
Impetigo is the name given to sores on the skin which have become infected. These are usually scabbed over and often drain pus. They can spread rapidly to other parts of the body and are also highly contagious.
Cause
The surface layers of the sore are infected with a germ (either Streptococcus or Staphylococcus aureus). Because the skin is broken it cannot serve as a barrier against these germs, and so they ‘feed’ on the wound.
In the early stages you may only notice red blebs or blisters anywhere on your child’s body, although they are especially common around the face, hands and legs. These spots may become pus-filled and scab over as they spread. The scabs are usually a yellow-green colour, and soon increase in number.
Investigations
If treatment is not progressing well, your doctor may suggest a swab (or brushing) of the affected area to identify both the germ, and the antibiotic which will be effective against it.
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