If you are wondering whether you can get treated for impetigo on the NHS, the answer is yes. Impetigo is a common bacterial skin infection and treatment is available through NHS services. Fast treatment is important for many patients, as impetigo can spread quickly, particularly among children in schools and nurseries.
Faster access has improved for many people through the Pharmacy First scheme. This service allows eligible patients to receive advice and treatment through a community pharmacy, without needing to wait for a GP appointment. It can be a more convenient route when symptoms need attention promptly.
What is Impetigo?
Impetigo is a contagious skin infection caused by bacteria. It often starts with red sores or blisters that can burst and form a crust. The crust is usually described as honey-coloured and it may spread if the skin is scratched or touched frequently.
It can appear anywhere on the body, but it is often seen around the nose and mouth. It may also develop where the skin has been broken, such as eczema patches, insect bites, or small cuts.
Common Symptoms of Impetigo
Impetigo is often easy to recognise once crusting appears, but it can start out looking like small irritated patches. Symptoms can stay mild, but they can also spread quickly, particularly in warm weather or close-contact settings.
- –> Red sores or blisters that may burst
- –> Golden or honey-coloured crusting
- –> Itching or mild soreness
- –> Spreading patches after scratching
- –> Swollen glands in some cases
If you are not sure whether your symptoms look like impetigo, contact us for advice on your next steps.
Can You Get Treated for Impetigo on the NHS?
Impetigo can be treated on the NHS, often through a GP or another appropriate NHS service. Treatment may include a topical antibiotic cream or an oral antibiotic, depending on how widespread the infection is and how severe symptoms are.
Appointments are not always easy to access quickly, which is why Pharmacy First is helpful for many patients. It provides another NHS route for assessment and treatment, often with fewer delays.
How Pharmacy First Can Help You Get Faster Treatment
The Pharmacy First scheme is designed to offer faster access to care for certain common conditions. Eligible patients may be able to access assessment and treatment without a GP appointment, which can be useful when symptoms need prompt care.
With impetigo, early treatment can help reduce the risk of it spreading to other areas of the body or to other people. It can also reduce disruption to work, childcare, and daily routines.
- –> Faster access to advice and treatment for eligible patients
- –> More flexible appointment availability for many people
- –> Care delivered in a local community pharmacy
- –> Guidance on treatment and preventing spread
Pharmacy Treatment for Impetigo
A pharmacy is a popular choice for many patients because it offers quicker access to advice and treatment. This can be especially useful when impetigo affects visible areas like the face, or when symptoms are spreading and you want advice promptly.
Pharmacy First can also suit parents who need treatment for children quickly, or adults who want to avoid taking time off work. The ability to access NHS treatment through a pharmacy can make the process simpler for mild to moderate cases.
Call us today if you want to check whether you may be eligible for Pharmacy First treatment.
How to Reduce the Spread of Impetigo
If you suspect impetigo, it helps to take steps straight away to reduce spreading. The infection can pass through close contact, shared towels, bedding, clothing, and touching affected skin.
- –> Wash hands often and avoid touching the sores
- –> Use a separate towel and flannel
- –> Keep nails short to reduce scratching damage
- –> Wash bedding, clothes, and towels on a hot wash
- –> Avoid sharing face cloths, razors, or makeup
Keeping the area clean and dry can also help. Gentle washing may loosen crusts, but avoid harsh scrubbing which can irritate the skin and spread bacteria.
When to Seek Urgent Advice on Impetigo
Impetigo is usually manageable, but advice should be sought quickly if symptoms worsen. This is especially important for babies, people with weakened immune systems, or anyone with skin conditions such as eczema.
- –> Symptoms spreading quickly or worsening
- –> Fever or feeling generally unwell
- –> Infection near the eyes
- –> Increasing redness, pain, or swelling
- –> Recurring infections
Managing Impetigo with Pharmacy First
So, can you get treated for impetigo on the NHS? Yes, and Pharmacy First may help eligible patients access treatment sooner with flexible appointment options. Early treatment and good hygiene habits can speed up recovery and reduce spreading.
Book now with Market Harborough Pharmacy and move forward with a safe treatment plan.
This blog was written on behalf of Market Harborough Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.
