Impetigo is a contagious bacterial skin infection that is most common in children aged 2 to 5 years. It is caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteriaand and appears as small blisters, sores around mouth, nose, hands, and feet. The sores may also burst later and form a honey-colored crust around the affected area.
Read on to know more about Impetigo and how it affects children:
Causes of Impetigo
This skin problem is largely caused by two types of bacteria: Group A streptococcus and Staphylococcus aureus. This type of infection is highly contagious although it is not necessary they may contract as immune system plays an important role here. Other causes of Impetigo are Diabetes, sunburn, staying around humid areas, HIV, and insect bites.
Symptoms
Visible symptoms of Impetigo are red sores in parts of the body. The crust around these sores turns yellow and honey-colored later. The doctors are able to identify the scabs and blisters from Impetigo easily. The blisters may be huge and not easy to burst.
Treatment
Impetigo is generally treated with the help of antibiotics and the extent of treatment depends on individual condition.
This disease is also seen in adults. The symptoms may be slightly different from the ones seen in children and can also be a little more complicated.
Prevention
You can prevent yourself from catching the infection always keep your hygiene in check, keep an open wound covered and don’t share any personal items with the person who has been diagnosed with Impetigo.
