The appearance of reddish blotches on your child’s face could be an indication of impetigo. Though not dangerous, this condition can be uncomfortable and should be addressed quickly. Here at Sagebrush Dermatology, we offer antibiotic medication and support to ease your child’s symptoms and get them back to feeling happy again.
What Is Impetigo?
Impetigo is a common and highly contagious condition that affects children between the ages of 2-5. It is caused by bacteria, usually staphylococci organisms. This condition can be spread through contact with others who are infected as well as through contact with clothing, towels, and shared toys.
What Are the Symptoms?
The most telling symptom of impetigo is the appearance of reddish sores on the skin. These occur on the face, mostly around the nose and mouth. They can also appear on the hands and feet. The sores remain for about a week, at which point they burst and develop into honey-colored scabs. Itching and mild discomfort can accompany these sores. The condition is highly contagious, so it is advised that you keep your child out of school if they are sick.
How to Treat Impetigo
A course of antibiotics is the best way to address this condition. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved retapamulin to treat impetigo in children as young as nine months old. Mupirocin is FDA approved to treat people 12 years of age and older. Properly administering antibiotics like these and practicing good hygiene are the keys to preventing the illness from spreading further.
When treating your child, you should:
- Clean the affected areas with soap and running water and then cover lightly with gauze.
- Wash the child’s clothes, linens, and towels every day with hot water, and don’t share them.
- Wear gloves when applying antibiotic ointment, and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.
- Cut your child’s nails short to prevent damage from scratching.
- Keep your child home while they’re sick.
- Encourage regular hand washing and good hygiene.
Schedule Treatment for Impetigo in Mesa, Arizona
If your child has symptoms of impetigo, we recommend getting treatment immediately. Our team can provide your child with medication and treatment to help them feel better. You can connect with us today by filling out the form below or giving our office a call at 480-681-DERM (3376).