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Skin & common infections

Impetigo

Impetigo is a common, highly contagious bacterial skin infection that usually causes sores or blisters, most often on the face, hands or around the nose and mouth.

Clinician: Abel Getachew, UK-registered clinician (GPhC 2217107). Verify registration.

Common symptoms and presentation

Typical signs are red sores that quickly burst and leave a golden-brown crust. It's more common in children but can affect adults too.

How The Nelford Clinic assesses this

Assessment usually involves a description and, where possible, a photo of the affected skin, along with how long it's been present and any relevant medical history.

Who this service may be suitable for

May be suitable for people with symptoms and appearance typical of impetigo where photo/remote assessment is sufficient to guide treatment.

When online treatment may not be appropriate

Online assessment may not be appropriate if the infection is widespread, you're feeling generally unwell or feverish, the diagnosis is uncertain from a photo, or you have a condition that weakens your immune system.

Treatment approach

Where appropriate, treatment usually involves a topical or oral antibiotic, alongside advice on hygiene measures to stop it spreading to others.

Suitability and treatment are always decided by individual clinical assessment. A prescription is never automatic and is not guaranteed.

Safety and follow-up

You're advised on what to expect during treatment and when to seek further review if things aren't improving.

Caution: When to seek urgent care

Seek urgent care if the skin becomes rapidly more red, swollen or painful, you develop a fever, or you feel generally unwell. If you have a medical emergency, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E. For urgent but non-emergency concerns, contact NHS 111. See Patient safety for full guidance.

Sources and clinical guidance

These are neutral background resources, not a description of Nelford’s own clinical protocol.

For how this content is prepared and kept current, see Clinical standards and governance.

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A UK-registered and regulated clinician will review your case individually.