Overview
Impetigo
Impetigo (im-puh-TIE-go) is a common, highly contagious skin infection that primarily affects infants and young children. It manifests as reddish sores on the face, especially around the nose and mouth, and on the hands and feet. These sores eventually burst, ooze for a few days, and form honey-colored crusts. Treatment with antibiotics can limit the spread of impetigo and help the infection heal faster. Children with impetigo should stay home from school or daycare until they are no longer contagious, which is usually 24 hours after beginning antibiotic treatment.
