A 21-year-old member asked:
Can impetigo spread to other parts of the body?
2 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in
Dr. Henry Bloomanswered
Family Medicine 50 years experience
Yes: Without treatment, often spreads to other areas of skin, or causes more serious infection, such as cellulitis or abcess, respiratory or even joint or bloodstream infection. Also can easily spread to others in the household, or can have come from someone else carrying the bacteria assymptomatically.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.5k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Dr. Sarkis Banipalsinanswered
Specializes in Family Medicine
Yes: If the patient touches the affected area, he/she can spread the impetigo to other parts of body.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Similar questions
A 31-year-old member asked:
How can you spread impetigo to other parts of your body?
1 doctor answer • 1 doctor weighed in
Dr. Cheryl Coldwateranswered
Pediatrics 40 years experience
Scratching: Impetigo is caused by infected skin sores. Scratching or picking at the lesions can easily transfer bacteria to other areas, especially any other breaks in the skin or mucous areas such as the nose or mouth area. Keep the sores clean, apply antibiotic ointment and a bandaid if needed. Avoid scratching or picking at them. Do good handwashing!
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.9k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Jul 10, 2013
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