Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection, common in children, that usually occurs around the chin, mouth, and nose. The condition is highly contagious and is spread by direct physical contact. It causes reddening of the skin, followed by the appearance of tiny, fluid-filled blisters.
The blisters then burst, leaving weeping areas that dry to give yellowish crusts. There may also be fever and swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck or face. Impetigo is treated with topical or oral antibiotics. With treatment, the infection usually clears up in a few days.
To prevent the spread of the infection, bed and bath linens should not be shared, and those who are infected should stay at home