What is impetigo?

Impetigo is a common and highly contagious bacterial skin infection that mainly affects infants and children, but can also occur in adults. It often develops on skin that is already broken, such as cuts, insect bites, or areas affected by eczema.

Impetigo typically causes red sores or patches that may burst and form yellow-brown crusts. While it is usually mild, early assessment is important to reduce the risk of spread and complications.

How Rose Pharmacy can help

At Rose Pharmacy, trained clinicians can assess symptoms of impetigo and determine the most appropriate next steps in line with NHS Pharmacy First guidance and national clinical standards.

Our approach is assessment-led, ensuring that treatment, advice, or referral is based on clinical need and individual circumstances.

NHS Pharmacy First treatment for impetigo

NHS Pharmacy First treatment may be available for eligible patients.

If you meet the NHS eligibility criteria, our clinicians may be able to provide treatment for non-bullous impetigo under the NHS Pharmacy First service following a consultation.

Eligibility depends on several factors, including:

• the type of impetigo

• how widespread the infection is

• age

• medical history

• whether there are signs of more serious illness

Not all cases of impetigo are suitable for pharmacy treatment, and some will require referral.

If NHS eligibility criteria are not met

If NHS eligibility criteria are not met, our clinicians may still be able to help.

In these situations, we can offer a separate private consultation, where a clinician will assess the condition and discuss the most appropriate next steps. This may include:

• advice and self-care guidance

• private prescribing where clinically appropriate, or

• referral to your GP or hospital services if further assessment is required

All options, including any costs, are explained clearly so patients or parents can make an informed decision.

When urgent medical care is needed

Some symptoms are not suitable for Pharmacy First management and require urgent medical assessment.

Please seek urgent medical advice if you or your child has:

• fluid-filled blisters (bullous impetigo)

• signs of widespread infection

• fever or appears generally unwell

• rapidly spreading redness, swelling, pain, or pus

• infection affecting a large area of the body

• a weakened immune system

• repeated episodes of impetigo

If severe symptoms or signs of serious infection are present, our team will advise urgent GP or hospital care.

What happens during a consultation?

During your consultation, a clinician will:

• assess symptoms and medical history

• determine whether NHS Pharmacy First treatment is appropriate

• provide advice on hygiene and preventing spread

• explain whether treatment, private care, or referral is the safest option

Where pharmacy treatment is not appropriate, we ensure patients are guided promptly and safely to the right level of care.

Preventing the spread of impetigo

Impetigo spreads easily through close contact and shared items.

Our clinicians will provide advice on:

• good hand hygiene

• keeping affected areas clean and covered

• avoiding sharing towels, clothing, or bedding

• staying away from school or work until no longer contagious

Clear guidance is provided to help protect family members and others.

Why choose Rose Pharmacy?

Patients and parents choose Rose Pharmacy because we offer:

• calm, supportive consultations

• structured clinical assessment using recognised pathways

• clear explanations and transparent care options

• responsible decision-making, including referral when needed

• a child-friendly and family-aware approach

Book an assessment or speak to our team

If you think you or your child may have impetigo, early advice is recommended.

Visit Rose Pharmacy or speak to a member of our team to arrange an assessment and discuss the most appropriate care.

The age range for this NHS service is 1 year and over.

NHS Pharmacy First treatment is subject to eligibility criteria. Private consultations are separate services and are offered only where clinically appropriate.