impetigo

Everyday

Impetigo is a common skin infection caused by bacteria, which gives red sores that burst and form golden-yellow crusts, often on the face and hands, mostly in young children. tree →

In the lessons

In health lessons, impetigo is very catching (contagious) by touching sores, towels or toys, so children with it may need to stay off school until it heals or after starting treatment. A doctor may give cream or medicine. Washing hands and not sharing towels helps stop it spreading. Common phrases: «have impetigo», «catch impetigo», «impetigo sores».

Examples

• My little sister had impetigo round her mouth. tree →
• The doctor gave him cream for his impetigo. tree →
• Impetigo spreads easily, so don't share towels. tree →
• She stayed off school until the impetigo crusts dried. tree →
• Washing your hands helps stop impetigo. tree →
• Impetigo is caused by bacteria, not by being dirty. tree →
• The nurse said the golden crusts were a sign of impetigo. tree →

Note

Uncountable. Say im-puh-TIE-go. Myth: it is not caused by being dirty — anyone can catch it, usually through a small cut or scratch.