It often starts as a small red spot near a child's nose or mouth, then develops the tell-tale honey-coloured crust. Impetigo is a superficial bacterial skin infection, most common in children, and it spreads enthusiastically through daycares, classrooms — and siblings.
How it spreads
The bacteria enter through small breaks in the skin — scratches, bug bites, eczema patches — and travel via direct contact and shared items like towels and pillowcases. Kids scratch, then touch, and the infection hops to new spots or new people.
Treatment is usually simple
Localized impetigo typically responds well to a prescription antibiotic ointment; more widespread cases may need oral antibiotics. In Ontario, pharmacists can assess impetigo and prescribe treatment when appropriate, free with a valid Ontario health card — a genuine time-saver for working parents facing a "no daycare until treated" rule. Widespread infection, fever, or an unwell child means a physician visit instead, and we'll tell you straight away.
Containing the outbreak at home
Keep sores covered where practical, trim fingernails, wash hands often, and give every family member their own towel while it heals. Most children can return to school or daycare 24 hours after starting effective treatment — check your school's policy.
Spotted the honey-coloured crust? Get a free assessment today and back to daycare sooner. Orleans Community Pharmacy · 613-824-3111 · https://orleansrx.ca/pages/minor-ailments.
Read next: "The parent's shortlist: five childhood complaints we see weekly"
This article is general information, not medical advice. A pharmacist assessment is required to determine whether treatment is appropriate; some situations need a referral to a physician or nurse practitioner, and Ontario pharmacists prescribe only within their permitted scope. Orleans Community Pharmacy · 2746 St-Joseph Blvd, Unit 100, Orléans, ON · 613-824-3111.
