Download Impetigo - Seoul Foreign School

February 18, 2016
Dear Parents,
Health Office would like to inform you that a case of impetigo has been reported in the school.
Impetigo, a contagious skin infection is one of the most common skin infections among kids. Impetigo is
caused by streptococcus (strep) or staphylococcus (staph) bacteria. A child may be more likely to develop
impetigo if the skin has already been irritated by other skin problems, such as eczema, poison ivy, and
insect bites.
Classic signs and symptoms of impetigo involve red sores that quickly rupture, ooze for a few days and
then form a yellowish-brown crust. Impetigo may affect skin anywhere on the body but commonly occurs
around the nose and mouth, hands, and forearms and diaper area in young children. Impetigo can spread
to anyone who comes into contact with infected skin or other items, such as clothing, towels, and bed
linens that have been touched by infected skin. Good hygiene, such as regular hand washing, can help
prevent impetigo.
Impetigo is typically treated with either an antibiotic cream or medication taken by mouth. If impetigo is
confirmed by your doctor, the child needs to stay home until 24-48 hours after antibiotic treatment has
been initiated and sores are drying or improving. Please check with your doctor when your child can
return to school.
For more information, please check the following resource websites:
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/impetigo/basics/definition/con-20024185
https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000860.htm
Please inform the Health Office (Tel: 330-3203, E-mail: [email protected]) if your child
develops impetigo. Thank you for your cooperation.
Best regards,
Health Office Staff