Impetigo Treatment for Children – NHS Pharmacy First

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Impetigo Treatment for Children – NHS Pharmacy First

Fast NHS assessment for impetigo without needing a GP appointment

Impetigo is a common and highly contagious skin infection, most often affecting young children.
Under the NHS Pharmacy First service, trained pharmacists can assess impetigo
and provide treatment where appropriate — without the need to wait for a GP appointment.

Early assessment helps limit spread, reduce discomfort, and support a quicker return to normal routines.

What is impetigo?

Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that usually starts as red sores or blisters.
These can burst and form distinctive golden or honey-coloured crusts.

It commonly affects the face, hands, and arms, and spreads easily through close contact,
scratching, or shared items such as towels.

Common symptoms of impetigo

Your child may be suitable for a Pharmacy First consultation if they have:

  • Red sores or blisters that burst and crust over
  • Golden or honey-coloured scabs
  • Itchy or sore patches of skin
  • Lesions around the nose, mouth, hands, or limbs
  • Symptoms that are spreading or not improving

Why early assessment matters

Impetigo spreads quickly, particularly in nurseries and schools.
Delaying treatment can lead to:

  • Infection spreading to other areas of the body
  • Passing the infection to siblings or classmates
  • Longer exclusion from school or childcare
  • More discomfort and scratching

Prompt assessment through NHS Pharmacy First helps control the infection
and reduce the risk of wider spread.

What can the pharmacist do?

During a Pharmacy First consultation, the pharmacist will:

  • Assess the affected skin and symptoms
  • Confirm whether the infection is suitable for pharmacy treatment
  • Provide hygiene and skin care advice
  • Supply NHS treatment where clinically appropriate
  • Refer to a GP if symptoms suggest a more serious or widespread infection

Antibiotics are only supplied when appropriate and in line with NHS clinical guidance.

Pharmacy First impetigo treatment near you

This NHS Pharmacy First service is available at the following local pharmacies:

All locations provide private consultation rooms and trained NHS pharmacy teams.

When Pharmacy First is not suitable

Pharmacy First may not be appropriate if:

  • The infection is widespread or severe
  • Your child is very unwell or has a fever
  • The skin is painful, swollen, or rapidly worsening
  • Symptoms do not improve with initial treatment

In these cases, the pharmacist will advise you to seek GP or urgent medical care.

If you’re concerned your child may have impetigo, visit your local NHS pharmacy for a Pharmacy First assessment.

More NHS services:
Pharmacy First (NHS)

Impetigo – Frequently Asked Questions (NHS Pharmacy First)

Can a pharmacist help with impetigo?

Yes. Under the NHS Pharmacy First service, a pharmacist can assess and treat uncomplicated impetigo without you needing to see a GP, provided you meet NHS eligibility criteria.

What is impetigo?

Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection. It often affects children but can occur in adults. It commonly appears around the nose and mouth but can affect other areas of the body.

What does impetigo look like?

  • Red sores or blisters that burst easily
  • Golden-yellow or honey-coloured crusts
  • Itchy or sore patches of skin
  • Skin that may look wet or weepy before crusting

Who can use NHS Pharmacy First for impetigo?

Pharmacy First for impetigo may be suitable if:

  • The infection is mild to moderate
  • It is localised (not widespread)
  • You are otherwise well
  • There are no signs of a more serious skin infection

The pharmacist will ask about how long the rash has been present, whether it is spreading, and any existing medical conditions.

Can the pharmacy provide treatment for impetigo?

If a pharmacist assesses that impetigo is present and NHS criteria are met, they may supply an NHS-approved antibiotic treatment where clinically appropriate. Not all cases require antibiotics, and the pharmacist will advise on the best course of action.

How long does impetigo last?

  • Impetigo often clears within 7 days with treatment
  • Without treatment, it may take longer to improve
  • Symptoms should gradually get better

What self-care advice can help with impetigo?

  • Gently wash affected areas with warm water
  • Remove crusts carefully if advised by a pharmacist
  • Avoid touching or scratching the sores
  • Do not share towels, bedding, or clothing
  • Wash hands regularly

When should I seek urgent medical help?

You should seek urgent advice if:

  • The infection is spreading quickly or becoming widespread
  • You develop fever or feel generally unwell
  • The skin becomes very painful, swollen, or red
  • There is no improvement after 3–5 days

For urgent advice, contact NHS 111. In an emergency, call 999.

Is impetigo contagious?

Yes. Impetigo spreads easily through close contact or sharing items such as towels. Children should stay away from school or nursery until sores have healed or after 48 hours of starting treatment, unless advised otherwise.

How do I access NHS Pharmacy First for impetigo?

  • Visit the pharmacy and ask for a consultation
  • Call the pharmacy for advice
  • Be referred by NHS 111 or your GP surgery

Eligibility and treatment availability depend on NHS clinical criteria and local pathways.