Collection
Impetigo: guidance, data and analysis
The characteristics, diagnosis and management of impetigo.
Impetigo is a common, mild skin infection, caused by Staphylococcus aureus, group A streptococci (Streptococcus pyogenes) - or a mixture of both. Group C and G streptococci can also cause impetigo.
The disease is highly infectious. Outbreaks can occur where there’s close contact between individuals or where personal items such as towels or clothes are shared. This includes schools, nurseries and military barracks. Cases occur in all ages but are more common in children.
Updates to this page
Published 1 July 2014