Overview

Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection mainly affecting children. It causes red sores that burst, ooze, and form characteristic honey-coloured crusts around the nose, mouth, and limbs. Very common in Kuwait's warm humid climate and spreads easily in schools, nurseries, and households.

Symptoms

• Red sores that quickly rupture and form honey-coloured golden crusts
• Itching and mild soreness; most common on face, arms, and legs
• Bullous impetigo: larger fluid-filled blisters, more common in infants
• Ecthyma (deeper form): ulcers with thick grey-yellow crusts that may scar

Causes & Risk Factors

• Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, or both
• Spreads by direct contact with sores or contaminated items (towels, clothing, sports equipment)
• Risk increases with skin injury, insect bites, eczema, and hot humid weather

Complications

• Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (rare kidney complication)
• Cellulitis — spread into deeper skin layers; septicaemia in severe cases
• School and household outbreaks

Diagnosis

Clinical diagnosis based on appearance. Swab cultures identify bacteria and guide antibiotic choice, especially if MRSA is suspected.

Treatment

• Mild/localised: topical mupirocin or fusidic acid cream
• Widespread: oral flucloxacillin, amoxicillin-clavulanate, or cefalexin
• Gently remove crusts with warm water before applying cream
• Children can return to school 48 hours after starting antibiotics

Prevention

• Wash hands frequently; keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered
• Don't share towels or personal items
• Treat insect bites and eczema promptly to prevent secondary infection

Ready to take the next step? Book a consultation today