PREVENTION OF IMPETIGO
Good hygiene is the best way to reduce the risk of developing or spreading impetigo. Cuts, scrapes, grazes, and insect bites should be washed immediately and kept clean. If somebody has impetigo it is important to keep their belongings isolated from other people, and to follow strict hygiene measures.
The following will help prevent the spread of infection to others, and also to other parts of the patient's body:
1. Wash the affected areas with a neutral soap and running water.
2. Then cover the area lightly with gauze.
3. Do not touch the sores. Encourage the patient not to touch the sores.
4.
The patient's clothes, bedding, towels and other toiletries should be washed daily.
5.
The patient's clothes must not be shared or worn by other people.
6.
When applying antibiotic ointment wear gloves, and wash hands thoroughly afterwards.
7.
Keep the patient's nails short to reduce scratching.
8.
Wash your hands and the patient's hands often.
9.
Isolate the patient until you are sure he/she is not contagious.
To prevent a recurrence of impetigo make sure any skin condition, such as eczema, is treated properly.
