Impetigo is an infection of the skin which is usually a staph (staphylococcal bacteria), but sometimes strep (streptococcal bacteria) infection. It typically enters the skin through small cuts or insect bites. It forms little red pimple looking spots that then fill with pus and later break open and form a yummy thick crust. (Not really yummy, do not eat!) They are really itchy, but if you scratch them they will spread. Coming in contact with these sores, or with nasal drainage can spread the infection to someone else. Sometimes the infection will go away on its own after a few weeks, but occasionally impetigo can cause other problems so your doctor might want to prescribe an cream or oral antibiotic.
For more information and pictures you can visit http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/impetigo/DS00464
I appreciate reading about this skin infection. My boys always seem to pick up some weird skin rashes, etc... It is really helpful to find information on what we might have!
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