Impetigo is a common and highly contagious bacterial skin infection. It tends to affect young children but can occur at any age. The infection usually develops where skin has been broken by a cut, scratch, or insect bite, and causes characteristic red sores that crust over with a golden-brown coating. With appropriate treatment it clears up quickly.
Under the NHS Pharmacy First service, our pharmacist can assess the affected skin and supply antibiotic cream or oral antibiotics on the spot where clinically appropriate, without a GP appointment. The service is available for adults and children aged 1 and over.
If you are not sure whether the rash looks like impetigo or you have questions about whether your child qualifies, call us on 0161 437 2634.
Symptoms we can treat
- Red sores or blisters that burst quickly and leave crusty patches
- Golden-brown or honey-coloured crusting on the skin
- Patches that can spread to nearby areas of skin
- Itching and sometimes soreness around the affected area
- Commonly appears around the nose, mouth, or on the hands
What to expect at your appointment
- A brief clinical assessment of the affected skin.
- Decision based on the assessment: antibiotic cream or oral antibiotics if clinically indicated.
- Treatment supplied on the spot under Patient Group Direction if needed.
- Advice on preventing spread to other people and keeping the area clean.