http://www.wechealthunit.org daily 1 2007-05-08T21:19:14Z http://www.wechealthunit.org/diseases-conditions/glossary/impetigo Impetigo is an inflammatory skin infection usually around the nose and mouth, but can appear elsewhere. Caused by: It is usually caused by staphylococcal or streptococcal bacteria. Symptoms: You may experience small, painful blisters which appear in crops, become crusted and may break and leak a straw-coloured fluid. It can be itchy and scratching will spread the infection. Incubation: If you have been in contact with the bacteria it will usually take 48 hours for the symptoms to occur. However, it can take as long as 7 to 10 days. Treatment: Your doctor will prescribed an antibiotic. The crusts (dried fluid) can be carefully removed after soaking with warm water. Communicable: Impetigo can be passed on to others while the sores drain, and until the medication prescribed by the doctor has been taken for 24 hours. Transmitted by: Impetigo may be passed on from colonized bacteria in the nose of a carrier, or from direct contact with a person who has the infection. Complications: Untreated sores may persist for months, and may lead to other problems, depending on the bacteria. Untreated streptococcal infections can lead to infections in the kidney and heart. Other: In some cases Impetigo is found on the arms and legs, and may happen as a result of a break in the skin or insect bite that becomes infected. In secondary Impetigo the main condition (scabies or dermatitis) must also be treated. A child may return to school once the treatment has been started. Prevention: Thorough hand washing is very important. Cuts, scratches and other skin sores should be carefully cleansed and protected. Do not share personal items such as face cloths, towels or bed linen. No publisher Mike 2006-08-30T20:35:02Z Glossary definition