Practical tips and self care measures

People with impetigo should:

• Practise good hand hygiene to avoid spreading the infection to others
• Avoid scratching the sores to prevent spreading bacteria on the skin
• Clean the affected area regularly with mild soap and water, followed by application of the suggested topical treatment
• Avoid sharing towels, clothing or personal items
• Change and wash towels and bedding at 60 degrees
• Children should be kept home from school until they are no longer contagious (i.e. when affected areas are dry and scabbed over, or 48 hours after starting treatment)
• Avoid contaminating creams/ointments with bacteria from your hands by using a clean spoon to remove the cream from the tub or tube.⁴