Impetigo Treatment and Advice at Highfield Pharmacy, St Albans

Impetigo is a common, contagious skin infection that mostly affects children but can occur at any age. At Highfield Pharmacy in St Albans we provide confidential, evidence-based assessment and treatment through our Pharmacy First service.

Our pharmacist-led consultations aim to treat impetigo quickly, reduce spread, and give clear self-care advice to support recovery.

What is impetigo?

Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection usually caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. It often starts as red spots or blisters that develop into crusted sores, commonly around the nose and mouth, hands and legs.

There are two main types:

• Non-bullous impetigo — the most common form with honey-coloured crusts.
• Bullous impetigo — causes larger blisters that may burst and leave a smooth raw area.

Who can be assessed and eligibility for treatment

Highfield Pharmacy can assess people of all ages presenting with suspected impetigo as part of the Pharmacy First minor ailments programme. Our pharmacists will consider factors such as the extent of the infection, any underlying health conditions, allergies and current medications.

Treatment under Pharmacy First is suitable for many cases that are uncomplicated and localised. If the infection is extensive, affects the eyes, or there are other medical concerns, our pharmacist will advise the most appropriate next steps in line with clinical protocols.

Symptoms checklist and what to expect

Use this checklist to help describe symptoms during your consultation:

• New red sores or blisters that quickly rupture
• Yellow or honey-coloured crusts over lesions
• Itching or mild soreness around affected skin
• Spread of spots near the original area

If you are unsure whether symptoms are impetigo, our pharmacist will perform a focused assessment and explain the likely diagnosis and options.

How Highfield Pharmacy treats impetigo

During a Pharmacy First consultation at Highfield Pharmacy we will:

• Take a concise history and examine the affected area where appropriate
• Confirm whether the infection appears to be impetigo and whether it is suitable for treatment at the pharmacy
• Offer treatment in line with NHS guidance, which may include topical antibiotics (for example, fusidic acid or mupirocin) for limited, localised impetigo, or oral antibiotics (such as flucloxacillin) if clinically indicated
• Provide practical hygiene and wound care advice to reduce spread and promote healing
• Advise on duration of treatment and what to expect during recovery

All consultations are confidential and carried out by our trained pharmacist, who will record care appropriately and discuss follow-up if needed.

Practical self-care advice

• Gently wash the area with mild soap and water and pat dry before applying any topical treatment.

• Keep fingernails short and discourage touching or scratching lesions to limit spread.

• Use separate towels and flannels for the affected person and wash bedding and clothing regularly.

• Avoid sharing items such as cups, towels or toys while lesions are active.

How to book or access the service at Highfield Pharmacy

You can access impetigo care at Highfield Pharmacy in St Albans by:

• Calling the pharmacy to make a Pharmacy First appointment
• Dropping in during opening hours and requesting an assessment
• Booking an appointment via our website if online booking is available

Please bring a list of any current medications and mention any allergies when you attend. Our pharmacist will explain treatment choices and supply any medicines directly where appropriate.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Can impetigo be treated without seeing a GP?

A: Yes. Many cases of impetigo can be assessed and treated through our Pharmacy First service without a GP appointment. Our pharmacist will advise if further medical review is needed.

Q: How long does treatment take to work?

A: Topical antibiotics often start to improve symptoms within a few days, and oral antibiotics may be needed for more widespread infection. Your pharmacist will explain how long to expect recovery and the length of treatment.

If you or your child have symptoms of impetigo, speak to the caring team at Highfield Pharmacy in St Albans. Book a Pharmacy First appointment, drop in for an assessment, or call us to discuss how we can help — our pharmacists are here to provide prompt, professional care and practical advice.