Impetigo (staphylococcal bacteria or streptococcal bacteria)
This is intended as a general guide. Consult a health care provider for diagnosis and for recommendations or advice.
How it Spreads
Usually follows a scrape or an insect bite.
Direct contact with rash; contact with bedding, towels, or clothing that have touched an infected person’s skin.
How to Recognize
Rash with a cluster of red bumps or blisters around the mouth, nose, or other parts of the skin not covered by clothing.
May ooze or be covered by a honey-colored crust.
When it is Contagious
From onset of rash until 24 hours after the start of antibiotic.
Maintain good hand washing after touching infected skin.
When to Report/Exclude
Exclude from child care and school for 24 hours after the start of antibiotics – if no antibiotic treatment is used exclude until rash is healed