Minor Ailments

Impetigo

Treat impetigo quickly and stop it from spreading with pharmacist-guided antibiotic solutions from RxHealthMed.

Understanding and Treating Impetigo

Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection that most commonly affects infants and young children. It is caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria and typically appears as red sores around the nose and mouth that burst and form a honey-coloured crust. While usually mild, impetigo should be treated promptly to keep it from spreading. In many provinces, your RxHealthMed pharmacist can prescribe topical antibiotics for uncomplicated cases.

Recognizing Impetigo

Impetigo usually starts as small red sores or blisters around the nose and mouth. These break open and leave behind a yellowish-brown, honey-coloured crust. The sores can be itchy and may spread to other parts of the body if touched. A less common form called bullous impetigo produces larger fluid-filled blisters, while ecthyma is a deeper form that causes painful ulcer-like sores.

How Your RxHealthMed Pharmacist Can Help

In eligible provinces, your RxHealthMed pharmacist can assess the rash and prescribe a topical antibiotic such as mupirocin for uncomplicated impetigo. They can also advise on hygiene steps to prevent the infection from spreading to others or to other areas of the body, and will let you know if oral antibiotics from a doctor are needed.

Find Impetigo Treatment Near You

Find an RxHealthMed pharmacy near you for a quick assessment and effective treatment options for impetigo. Our pharmacists are here to help manage common skin infections with care.

Frequently asked questions

Have questions about impetigo? Here you will find answers about how it spreads, the most effective treatment options, and how long it typically takes to clear up.

Is impetigo contagious?

Yes, impetigo spreads very easily. It can pass through direct contact with the sores or any discharge, or by touching shared items like towels, clothing, or toys that have been contaminated. Thorough handwashing and keeping hands away from the sores are the most important steps to contain it.

How is impetigo treated?

Mild impetigo is usually treated with a topical antibiotic cream like mupirocin applied directly to the affected area. More widespread or severe cases may need oral antibiotics from a doctor. Keeping sores clean and covered helps the skin heal more quickly.

Can a pharmacist treat impetigo?

In many Canadian provinces, pharmacists are authorized to assess and prescribe topical antibiotics for uncomplicated impetigo. Ask your RxHealthMed pharmacist whether this minor ailment service is offered in your area.

How long does impetigo take to heal?

With antibiotic treatment, impetigo generally clears within 7 to 10 days. Without treatment, it can take two to three weeks to resolve and is more likely to spread to other parts of the body or to other people in the meantime.

How can I stop impetigo from spreading?

Wash hands often, keep the sores covered with a clean bandage, resist touching or scratching the affected area, wash clothing and bedding daily during the infection, and avoid sharing personal items like towels or washcloths until the skin has fully healed.

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Our pharmacists can assess symptoms and prescribe treatments for minor ailments.