Impetigo, also known as school sores, is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection that mainly affects children. In a childcare setting, impetigo has the potential to spread very quickly, so the management of this bacterial infection becomes very important. It’s caused by either the Streptococcus or Staphylococcus bacteria and presents as red sores that can be itchy and very painful.
It's one of many highly communicable diseases in childcare that is bound to mandatory exclusion policies.
Symptoms
As mentioned above, impetigo presents as small red bumps or sores that quickly turn into blisters, which burst and leave behind a yellow, crusty sore. These sores can appear anywhere on the body but are commonly found around the mouth, nose, and hands.
The rash is likely to be itchy and painful, and there may be swollen lymph nodes near the affected area.
Transmission
Impetigo is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with the sores or through clothing, towels or even toys that have been previously in contact with an infected site. Scratching the sores will likely spread the infection to other parts of the body, causing flare ups.
Complications
If left untreated, impetigo can lead to more serious complications such as cellulitis, a skin infection that spreads to the deeper layers of skin, which will need antibiotic treatment. Untreated cellulitis may also need a stay in hospital. If you suspect your child has impetigo, it's imperative to seek medical advice and begin treatment as soon as possible.
Treatment
Impetigo is commonly treated with antibiotics, either topical or oral, depending on the severity. It’s important to complete the full course of antibiotics, as prescribed, even if the sores look to be subsiding, to ensure that the infection is completely taken care of. Sores should also be kept clean and covered with a bandage to prevent the spread of infection.
Prevention
To prevent the spread of impetigo, it is important to remind children to practice good hygiene such as:
- Washing hands regularly
- Avoiding close contact
- Not swapping clothes
- Keeping your own towel
When you have impetigo in your home, you should ensure the bedding, towels and clothing of the person with the infection is all washed alone in hot water and dried on high heat to kill any bacteria.
Childcare exclusion periods
In Australia, children with impetigo should be excluded from childcare or school until at least 24 hours after they start treatment with antibiotics. Once the sores have dried out and are no longer contagious, the child can return to school or childcare. It is important to follow these exclusion periods to prevent the spread of infection to other children and adults.
