Skin conditionsMy son, who's 4, has some sores on his face. Yesterday there was only on small one near his nose but today it has spread and he has several around his mouth and chin. To make matters worse his younger sister looks likes she's developing one as well. What is it?
It sounds like a skin condition called impetigo. A very contagious skin infection, it can affect any part of the body including the arms, legs and buttocks, but usually develops on the face around the mouth and nose. It is most common in infants and children, particularly those who have just started school.
Well, my son recently started playschool and now that you mention it, I have noticed one of his classmates has it as well. What's causing it?
Impetigo is caused by two types of bacteria, called streptococcus and staphylococcus. It usually starts as a small patch of tiny blisters around the nose or mouth. These break open to form a weeping area of red skin which soon develops a golden crust. It then spreads from the edges and forms new infected patches. What can I do to get rid of it?
It is important to try and treat impetigo as soon as possible and to take measures to prevent its spread within the family and to others. You should bring your children to your family doctor who will prescribe an antibiotic lotion. You will have to wash the affected area several times a day with an antibacterial soap and gently sponge off any crusts followed by an application of the antibiotic lotion. In more severe cases, a penicillin-type antibiotic taken by mouth may be needed. The blisters and crusts of this condition are not usually painful but can itch so you try to keep your childrens nails cut short and discourage picking and scratching. To prevent spread of the condition try to encourage everyone in the family to wash their hands frequently with an antibacterial soap.