Impetigo
Impetigo
There are two forms of impetigo – bullous and non-bullous. This module and the corresponding NHS England Pharmacy First PGD deal exclusively with the more common non-bullous impetigo.
Impetigo is caused by a bacterial infection of the surface of the skin. It is most common in young children (two to five years of age); adults can also be affected. Although it can look dramatic it is often only mildly itchy, if at all.
The most common causative organism is Staphylococcus aureus, after exposure to the organism the incubation period is four to 10 days.
Impetigo is highly contagious and there may be a history of contact with other individuals with impetigo.
