NHS-contracted pharmacy · GPhC registered · Two branches in Plaistow
Impetigo
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Impetigo Treatment in Plaistow - NHS Pharmacy First at Newmans Pharmacy
Impetigo sometimes called “school sores” is a highly contagious skin infection that’s common in children but can affect anyone. The good news: it’s usually easy to treat. At Newmans Pharmacy on Barking Road, Plaistow, our pharmacists can assess and treat impetigo under the NHS Pharmacy First service for anyone aged 1 and over, completely free.
Don’t wait for a GP appointment impetigo spreads quickly, especially in households and schools. Walk into our Plaistow pharmacy today.
How to Recognise Impetigo
- Sores or blisters that quickly burst and leave a yellow, crusty patch (typical “honey-coloured” crust)
- Most often appears around the nose, mouth, hands or arms
- Can be itchy, but usually not painful
- Sometimes forms larger blisters (bullous impetigo), especially in babies and toddlers
How We Treat Impetigo
Our pharmacist will assess the severity and offer the appropriate treatment per NHS guidance:
- Hydrogen peroxide 1% cream for localised, non-bullous impetigo (first-line)
- Topical antibiotics (fusidic acid) if hydrogen peroxide isn’t suitable
- Oral antibiotics if the infection is widespread, severe or bullous
Stopping the Spread
Impetigo is highly contagious. Until 48 hours after starting treatment (or until sores have crusted over if no treatment), your child should:
- Stay off school or nursery
- Avoid touching the sores
- Wash hands frequently
- Use separate towels, flannels and bedding
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Frequently Asked Question
How long until my child can go back to school?
48 hours after starting antibiotic treatment, or once all the sores have crusted over and stopped weeping.
Can adults get impetigo?
Yes, though it’s more common in children. The treatment is the same.
Is impetigo serious?
Usually no, but it can occasionally lead to complications like cellulitis. That’s why treatment is important even though impetigo itself is mild.
Can the pharmacy treat impetigo directly?
Yes. Under the NHS Pharmacy First service, our pharmacists can assess and treat impetigo for adults and children aged 1 year and over. If the infection is localized and not widespread, we can provide effective treatment, such as antibiotic creams (e.g., Hydrogen Peroxide cream or Mupirocin), without you needing to visit a GP.
How can I stop impetigo from spreading to others?
Impetigo is highly contagious. To prevent it from spreading, you should:
Avoid touching or scratching the sores.
Keep the affected area clean and covered with a loose bandage if possible.
Do not share towels, flannels, or bed linen until the sores have crusted over or until 48 hours after starting antibiotic treatment.
Stay away from school or work until the sores have dried and scabbed over, or 48 hours after your first dose of medication.
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Pharmacy Info
- GPhC Registration Number: See branch pages
- Limited Company Registration No: 04621634
- Superintendent pharmacist: Seetal Patel (GPhC No. 2048321)
Our Stores
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(376 - Abbey Arms)
- Mon - Fri : 09:00 - 18:00
- Sat : 09:00 - 05:30
- Sun : Closed
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(524-526 - Greengate)
- Mon - Fri : 09:00 - 18:30
- Sat : 09:00 - 05:30
- Sun : Closed