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Impetigo in Children

Impetigo is a contagious bacterial infection of the outer layers of the skin. It often causes red sores or blisters that develop yellow or honey-colored crusts.

Staphylococcus aureus and group A Streptococcus are common causes. The bacteria can enter through cuts, scrapes, insect bites, eczema or other breaks in the skin.

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AAP Guide to Impetigo in Children

The AAP guide below explains what impetigo looks like, how it is treated, and when your child can return to school or activities.

AAP Symptom CheckerImpetigo

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • You think your child has impetigo.
  • The sores are spreading, painful or close to the eyes.
  • Your child develops fever or appears ill.
  • The infection is not improving after treatment begins.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child appears severely ill or develops rapidly spreading skin infection.
  • Your child has any life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on skin and rashes

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms