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What Is Impetigo and How Is It Treated Without a GP Appointment?

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  • What Is Impetigo and How Is It Treated Without a GP Appointment?

Impetigo is a common bacterial skin infection that clears up quickly with the right treatment, and you do not need to wait for a GP to get it. Thanks to the NHS Pharmacy First scheme, a trained pharmacist can assess your symptoms, confirm the diagnosis, and issue antibiotic treatment on the spot. 

If you need impetigo treatment in Loughborough or the surrounding areas, Oakwood Pharmacy in Woodhouse Eaves is your nearest Pharmacy First provider. 

What Is Impetigo?

Impetigo is a contagious infection of the outer skin, caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria. It spreads easily through direct contact and is most common in children, though adults can develop it too. 

What Are the Main Symptoms?

Impetigo often starts as red sores or patches that may itch, release fluid, and eventually develop a honey-coloured crust. Common signs include: 

  • Red sores around the nose, mouth, or on the hands. 
  • Weeping fluid that dries to a golden-brown crust. 
  • Itching or discomfort around the affected area. 
  • In bullous impetigo: larger blisters that burst and leave a raw patch. 

How Is Impetigo Treated?

Impetigo is treated with antibiotics. According to the NHS, most cases clear up within 7 to 10 days of starting treatment. The type of antibiotic depends on how widespread the infection is. 

Topical vs. Oral Antibiotics

  • Fusidic acid cream: applied to affected impetigo sores, usually for a course of five to seven days. 
  • Oral antibiotics: prescribed when the infection is widespread or has not responded to cream. 

How Pharmacy First Impetigo Treatment Works

Pharmacy First is an NHS scheme that allows pharmacists to assess and prescribe for seven conditions without a GP referral. Impetigo is one of them. At Oakwood Pharmacy, our pharmacist will assess your skin in a private consultation room, confirm the diagnosis, and provide your prescription the same day. 

Get Expert Support for Impetigo at Oakwood Pharmacy

NHS Pharmacy First consultations can help you access advice and treatment for impetigo without first visiting a GP. Located in Woodhouse Eaves, we offer professional consultations and expert support for patients with impetigo. Patients can receive an assessment and advice on appropriate treatment options from our experienced pharmacist. 

We support patients across Loughborough and the surrounding areas, including Quorn, Mountsorrel, Coalville, and Barrow upon Soar. Wherever you’re located locally, professional help is within easy reach. 

Book your appointment today to receive expert advice and support for impetigo symptoms.

FAQs

Yes. Children should remain off school or nursery until their sores have crusted over, or for at least 48 hours after starting antibiotic treatment.
If there is no improvement after 48 hours, return to the pharmacy or contact your GP. Some cases need an alternative antibiotic. Always complete the full course.
Very. It spreads through direct contact with infected skin or contaminated items such as towels and bedding. Avoid touching the sores and wash hands regularly while the infection is active.
Yes. Scratching the sores and then touching other areas of skin can spread the infection. Keep the affected area covered where possible and wash hands frequently to stop it spreading further.
Yes. While it is more common in children, adults can develop impetigo, particularly those with eczema, a skin injury, or a weakened immune system.