IMPETIGO (INFECTED SORES)

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR IMPETIGO (INFECTED SORES)

Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If

Your child looks or acts very sick.
Red or cola-colored urine.
Red streak runs from the impetigo.
Red tender area surrounds the impetigo.

Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9am and 4pm) If

You think your child needs to be seen.
Fever or sore throat are present.
Large sore (larger than 1 inch across or 2.5 cm).

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

You have other questions or concerns.
Sores and crusts are also inside the nose.
Impetigo in 2 or more children (e.g., sibs, childcare groups).
3 or more impetigo sores (reason: need an oral antibiotic because many of these children also have strep throat infection).

Parent Care at Home If

1 or 2 impetigo sores that started with cut, scratch or insect bite and you don't think your child needs to be seen (reason: probably will respond to antibiotic ointment).

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2003

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