Minor Ailments

Impetigo

Treat impetigo and prevent spreading with pharmacist-guided antibiotic solutions.

Understanding and Treating Impetigo

Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection that most commonly affects infants and young children. It is caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria and typically presents as red sores around the nose and mouth that rupture and form a honey-coloured crust. While usually mild, impetigo should be treated promptly to prevent spreading. In many provinces, PharmaChoice pharmacists can prescribe topical antibiotics for uncomplicated impetigo.

Recognizing Impetigo

Impetigo typically begins as red sores or blisters around the nose and mouth, which burst and leave a yellowish-brown (honey-coloured) crust. The sores may be itchy and can spread to other parts of the body through touching. Bullous impetigo may produce larger fluid-filled blisters, while ecthyma is a deeper form that causes painful sores with ulcers.

How Your Pharmacist Can Help

In eligible provinces, your PharmaChoice pharmacist can assess the rash and prescribe a topical antibiotic such as mupirocin for uncomplicated impetigo. They can also advise on hygiene practices to prevent spreading the infection to others or to other parts of the body, and will refer you to a physician if oral antibiotics are required.

Find Impetigo Treatment Near You

Find a PharmaChoice pharmacy near you for assessment and treatment of impetigo. Our pharmacists are trained to help manage common skin infections efficiently.

Frequently asked questions

Get answers to common questions about impetigo, including how it spreads, treatment options, and how long it takes to clear up.

Is impetigo contagious?

Yes, impetigo is very contagious. It spreads through direct contact with the sores or discharge, or by touching contaminated items such as towels, clothing, or toys. Good hand hygiene and avoiding touching the sores are essential to prevent spreading.

How is impetigo treated?

Mild impetigo is typically treated with a topical antibiotic cream such as mupirocin applied directly to the sores. More widespread or severe cases may require oral antibiotics prescribed by a doctor. Keeping the sores clean and covered helps speed recovery.

Can a pharmacist treat impetigo?

In many Canadian provinces, pharmacists are authorized to assess and prescribe topical antibiotics for uncomplicated impetigo. Ask your PharmaChoice pharmacist if this service is available in your province.

How long does impetigo take to heal?

With antibiotic treatment, impetigo typically clears up within 7–10 days. Without treatment, it can take 2–3 weeks and may spread to other areas of the body or to other people.

How can I prevent impetigo from spreading?

Wash hands frequently, keep sores covered with a clean bandage, avoid touching or scratching the sores, launder clothing and bedding daily, and do not share personal items such as towels or washcloths until the infection is fully cleared.

Get care guidance and treatment support from your pharmacist.

Our pharmacists can assess symptoms and prescribe treatments for minor ailments.