Impetigo Treatment in Camberley

What is impetigo?

Impetigo is a common and very contagious bacterial skin infection, most often seen in children. It starts as small blisters or sores — typically around the nose and mouth, or on hands and knees — which burst and form the characteristic golden-brown crusts. It can be itchy, but is not usually painful.

It spreads through touching the sores or sharing towels, flannels and bedding, which is why nurseries and schools ask children to stay off until treatment is underway. The good news: with the right treatment it usually clears within 7–10 days.

How we treat it

The pharmacist examines the affected skin and confirms whether it is impetigo — several other skin conditions can look similar, so a proper look matters.

Where the NHS pathway applies, treatment can be supplied on the spot: an antibiotic cream for small localised patches, or antibiotic tablets where it is more widespread — without a GP appointment.

You will also get the hygiene advice that stops it spreading: keep sores clean and covered where practical, no sharing towels or pillowcases, wash hands after touching the area, and keep children off school or nursery until 48 hours after treatment starts or the sores have crusted over.

Medicines supplied under Pharmacy First follow normal NHS prescription charge rules — free if you are exempt (including all children).

How it works

When to get urgent help

• Your child seems generally unwell — feverish, lethargic or off food — alongside the rash: same-day GP or 111 advice
• The redness is spreading quickly, or the skin is becoming increasingly painful, hot and swollen: urgent same-day care
• Impetigo that keeps coming back: see your GP to look for an underlying cause
• Blisters covering large areas, or sores near the eyes in a young baby: same-day assessment

Frequently asked questions

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