As the most common bacterial infection in children, impetigo is known for producing blisters or sores on the face, neck, hands, and diaper area of those it affects, and usually requires antibiotic treatment to stop its spread.
However, a little awareness goes a long way in not only controlling its spread but even preventing it in the first place. Take this "True or False" quiz to test your knowledge of impetigo and learn what you can do to limit your child's risk of developing it.
1) Impetigo is very contagious.
TRUE. It spreads via contact with infected skin or other items (clothing, towels, and bedding) that have been in contact with infected skin. Since impetigo can itch, kids can even spread the infection on their own body by scratching then touching other areas.
2) Infants are most commonly affected by impetigo.
FALSE. While it occurs in kids of all ages, impetigo usually affects preschool and school-age children.
3) Having rashes, scrapes or cuts puts kids at a higher risk for impetigo.
TRUE. Parents should monitor any skin scrapes, cuts, bug bites, eczema, poison ivy, as they present a vulnerable area for infection. However, caring for these areas and keeping them clean and covered can help stop impetigo before it starts. If there are cases of impetigo reported at daycare or school, be extra vigilant is caring for any areas of irritated or broken skin on your child.
4) Impetigo is caused by a MRSA.
TRUE & FALSE. The two following bacteria (not MRSA) are the most common causes of impetigo: Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes (which also causes strep throat). However, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is also a growing cause of impetigo, though less common.
5) Impetigo always causes larges blisters.
FALSE. There are two types of impetigo. Bullous impetigo causes large blisters, but non-bullous is the most common type. Non-bullous (or crusted) starts as tiny blisters which burst and leave patches of read skin that leak fluid and form a crust.
6) Good hygiene can prevent impetigo.
TRUE. Regular washing of hands and face can stop a sore or rash from becoming infected or developing into impetigo.
"If you are concerned your child may have impetigo, the sooner you make an appointment with your child's healthcare provider, the better. If diagnosed in a small, isolated area, impetigo is usually very treatable with antibiotic ointment," said Dr. Robert Cates, family practice and sports medicine physician. "However, if the ointment isn't effective or the infection has spread on the body, your doctor may prescribe 7-10 day course of an antibiotic pill or liquid."
Cates added that parents should monitor treated sores and call the doctor if the skin doesn't begin to heal after 3 days or if a fever develops. If the area around the rash becomes red, warm or tender to the touch, contact your child's provider immediately.
