What is Impetigo?
Identifying Impetigo
Impetigo is an extremely contagious bacterial infection that is common in preschoolers. The reasons are unknown, but this condition is very uncommon in adults. Staphylococcus aureus is the bacteria that is responsible for causing impetigo.
Infants with Impetigo form red bumps around the nose and mouth, which can later spread to other parts of the body. Younger children have a higher chance of presenting with cold-like symptoms such as fever and chills. The lymph glands can also be swollen too. These bumps, over time, will often become filled with pus, and form blisters, which may burst.
Preventing and treating impetigo infections
Simple use of good hygiene can go a long ways in preventing Impetigo infections from spreading. If your baby contracts Impetigo, make sure that you wash their bodies regularly, and particularly the areas that have rashes. If there are other siblings, use separate towels, bed linens, and encourage the other children to wash regularly, and to be extra careful if they have open cuts.
If your baby gets Impetigo, it is best to contact your pediatrician for advise. They may prescribe appropriate antibiotics, depending on the severity of the infection.
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