Is impetigo a dangerous skin disease?

Impetigo is a skin infection that mainly occurs in young children and has been on the rise in recent years. But what exactly is impetigo?

This skin infection is caused by bacteria such as staphylococci and streptococci. These bacteria are often present in the nose without causing the disease. The bacteria can cause an infection on the skin after transmission via the hands and contaminated toys by coughing or sneezing.

The infection is more common in children and is usually around the nose or mouth, but can also occur in other places. The scabs are typical of the infection. Impetigo is very contagious and spreads easily in the family, the nursery and at school. People are contagious as long as the wounds have not dried and healed.

Impetigo must always be treated to prevent the spread of lesions and infection of others. The doctor will prescribe either an ointment or antibiotics depending on the size of the lesions.

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2022-02-22 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2025