Impetigo: Treated at the Pharmacy, No GP Appointment Needed

What impetigo looks like

Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection, most common in children. It starts as red sores or blisters, often around the nose and mouth, which burst and form a golden-brown crust. It is not usually serious but it is very contagious.

Under Pharmacy First a pharmacist can assess it and supply treatment, usually an antibiotic cream, without a GP appointment.

Stopping it spreading

Impetigo spreads through direct contact and through shared towels, flannels and bedding. Keep those separate, wash hands after touching the affected area, and try to stop children picking at the crusts.

Children should stay off school or nursery until the sores have crusted over and dried, or for 48 hours after starting antibiotic treatment.

When it needs more than a cream

Widespread impetigo, repeated episodes, or infection in a baby may need oral antibiotics or a GP review. The pharmacist will make that call during the assessment and refer you on if needed.

Where to come

Walk into Village Green Pharmacy, 1095–1097 Warwick Road, Acocks Green, Birmingham B27 6QT. Open Monday to Saturday 9am–9pm and Sunday 10am–8pm.