Impetigo is a contagious skin infection caused by bacteria. Red colored sores occur on the skin mostly around the nose and mouth which would eventually break open discharging yellowish pus. It is seen largely on children and rare on adults. One should be very careful about this skin infection since it spreads easily by sharing towels or any clothing with infected person. Antibiotics are prescribed for controlling the bacteria and to prevent further spreading of infection.
Symptoms :
Painful red sores occur on the nose and mouth region. It starts as dark red spots small in size and will eventually grow into blisters. When these blisters break open it discharges yellow colored pus. It is the time when the infection spreads easily to others. The sores will look as if they are coated with brown sugar or honey.
Usually the painful sores occur on the mouth region and nose which may spread to other parts of the body when it is touched by fingers. Large sized blisters (bullous impetigo) can also occur on the diaper area of the infants in some cases. These red sores will grow in number and size and for some children it grows as large as a coin.
Causes :
Impetigo is caused by strep bacteria or staph bacteria. Either streptococcus or staphylococcus bacteria would enter the skin of the child’s body. There is increased chance of its occurrence if the child already has skin problem or cut or injury in his body. It can also be passed into the skin through insect bites, cuts and burns. Sometimes children may get this infection after they have runny nose or allergic cough.
Who are at risk?
Children of age group 3-10, children who live in crowded conditions and those who have increased skin contact with other infected children have more risk of getting impetigo. Humid weather condition can also cause impetigo. Any child with broken skin or cut or rash has increased chance for getting this infection. In rare cases it can cause deep ulcers (ecthyma) and serious infection called cellulitis affecting the tissues beneath the skin. The bacteria would enter the lymph nodes and bloodstream causing serious complications.