Impetigo
Impetigo is a common childhood skin infection that is usually caused by bacteria called Group A Streptococcus (strep) or Staphylococcus aureus (staph). Infection occurs when the bacteria get into scrapes and insect bites. Having impetigo does not mean someone is not clean. It often affects preschool and school-aged children, especially those whose skin has already been irritated or who have other skin problems like eczema or poison ivy.
More Information about Impetigo
Individual cases are not reportable to the Health Unit.
Should one go to childcare, school, or work if they have impetigo?
Those infected should be excluded from childcare, school, or work until 24 hours after treatment with antibiotics has been started.
Follow the direction of your healthcare provider or occupational health at your workplace.
Contact our Communicable Disease Control (CDC) program at 705-474-1400 or toll free at 1-800-563-2808, ext. 5229, or by email to cdc@healthunit.ca for more information.
Last reviewed: May 2025, by CDC