Impetigo can resovle inself within two to three weeks but treatment is recommended if the infection can be spread easily.

There is only one medication that is available as an OTC treatment which is Crystacide cream (1% hydrogen peroxide).  It should be applied two to three times a day for a maximum of three weeks.

The only other treatment availabe is antibiotic tablets or a cream prescriped by the patients GP.

You can offer them the following advice to help relieve the symptoms:-

• Avoid touching or scratching the area
• Keep the sores clean and dry
• Cover the sores with a loose gause or loose clothing

To help prevent impetigo spreading:-

• Avoid going to school or work whilst still infectious
• Wash hands frequently
• Wash bedding and towels freqently and at a high temperature
• Wash any toys if possible
• Don't prepare food for others
• Avoid contact with people who have a weakened immune system