How can one prevent Impetigo?

Impetigo is a highly contagious skin disorder which causes red sores. These sores can occur on anywhere on the body but they are more common around the mouth and nose. It mainly affects the infants and children but it can occur in adults too. They usually go away on their own but antibiotics can reduce its course and prevent the spread to others.

Causes of Impetigo

It is caused by strep and staph bacteria. These bacteria enter the body through a injured or irritated skin. Children commonly get impetigo during or after cold and allergies. But once the impetigo is treated the skin may develop back to healthy skin.

Symptoms

Occurrence of sores on around the mouth or nose.
Ooze fluid and crusty look of the sores.
Increased number of sores and their sizes.

How is Impetigo Treated

Mild cases of impetigo are treated with antibiotics ointment while severe impetigo is treated with antibiotic pills.

How to prevent Impetigo

The best and simple way to prevent impetigo is to avoid close contact with the affected person. Sharing things like towels, pillows, sheets, clothes, toys and other items with the infected person should be avoided. All such items should only be used after washing them with warm water. Scratching the sores can spread it to others areas of the body therefore, keep the sores covered to resist scratching. Always wash hands with soap to prevent it from spreading.


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