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Advice and NHS-funded* treatment for Impetigo in Sussex
Do you or your child have symptoms of a possible impetigo infection? Now those aged 1 year and over can access Free NHS impetigo advice and treatment service through the Pharmacy First Service, without the need to see your GP. Book your appointment online.
*The pharmacist will check your suitability and eligibility for the Free NHS Pharmacy First Service. In some cases, a treatment may not be required for your symptoms. Also, if the pharmacist finds that your symptoms suggest a more serious infection or condition, they may refer you to your GP or another service for further assessment and treatment.
What is Impetigo?
Impetigo is a very contagious skin infection. It is usually not serious and can clear within 7-10 days with treatment. It can affect anyone but it is more common in young children.
What causes Impetigo?
Impetigo is caused by bacterial infection. The two main causative bacteria are group A Streptococcus and Staphylococcus aureus. When the skin barrier is broken, it is susceptible to impetigo infection.
It is recommended that you keep any cuts, scratches or insect bites to the skin clean by for example washing it with soap and warm water. Get treatment for any skin condition that can lead to broken skin, such as eczema. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further advice.
What are the main signs and symptoms of Impetigo?
Impetigo is generally a mild infection that can affect anyone and it can occur anywhere on the body. However, it is most commonly found:
- Near the mouth and nose areas
- On arms and legs
The symptoms start as itchy red sores and blisters. These burst within a few days leaving brown, golden crusty patches.
What are the available treatment options for Impetigo?
Once you have a consultation with one of our pharmacists, if it is clinically appropriate and you meet the eligibility criteria, you will be offered a treatment to help with the recovery from the impetigo infection.
There are several treatments available that you might be offered. These include:
Hydrogen Peroxide Cream - Treatment of localised non-bullous impetigo.
Antibiotic Cream - Fusidic acid cream for the treatment of non-bullous impetigo.
Antibiotic Tablets/capsules/oral solution - For treatment of widespread non-bullous impetigo.
*If you are issued a prescription medicine, you will pay the standard NHS prescription charge unless you’re eligible for free prescriptions.
If treatment through the Pharmacy First Service is not suitable or you don’t meet the eligibility criteria, the pharmacist will offer an alternative treatment or sign-post you to another service.
What is the Pharmacy First Service?
The Pharmacy First Service is an NHS service designed to offer free advice and treatments to eligible patients for seven common conditions. Patients can access this service at participating pharmacies in England. The six additional conditions covered by this service are:
Think Pharmacy First for common conditions. Book your appointment online to see a pharmacist at OFlinn Pharmacy.