NHS Pharmacy First · Impetigo
Impetigo? Get it treated today.
Impetigo is a common skin infection that spreads easily, especially among children. Our pharmacist can check it and treat it on the NHS for anyone aged 1 and over.
- Age 1 and over
- Free consultation
- About 15 minutes
- Walk in, or book
Can I use Pharmacy First for impetigo?
Yes, if
- Aged 1 or older
- Sores that crust over, usually around the nose and mouth
Not covered
- Babies under 1
- Large fluid-filled blisters
- Impetigo that keeps coming back
- A weakened immune system
Not covered? Come in anyway if you’d like advice. Our pharmacist will help where they can, and tell you who to see if they can’t.
Symptoms
- red sores or blisters, often around the nose and mouth, or on the hands
- sores that burst and leave golden-brown crusts
- itching
- patches that spread or join up
What happens when you come in
Walk in, or book a time
Ask at the counter for Pharmacy First. You don’t need to see your GP first.
A private chat with the pharmacist
The pharmacist looks at the affected skin and asks how long it’s been there and whether it’s spreading. Please let us know when you arrive if you think it’s impetigo, so we can see you in our private room straight away.
Advice, and treatment if you need it
The pharmacist explains what they think is going on and what will help. Any medicine they give you is supplied on the NHS.
We let your GP know
A short note goes to your GP surgery, so your record is up to date. If you need to see a doctor, we’ll tell you.
What treatment might I get?
For a small patch, an antiseptic cream is usually the first treatment.
If that’s not suitable, or the infection is more widespread, the pharmacist may offer an antibiotic cream or tablets.
It usually clears up within 7 to 10 days of starting treatment.
Looking after yourself
- Keep the sores clean and loosely covered
- Wash your hands after touching them, and don’t share towels or flannels
- Try not to scratch; keep children’s nails short
- Stay off school, nursery or work until the sores have crusted over, or 48 hours after starting treatment
What it costs
The consultation is free. If the pharmacist gives you a medicine, you pay the usual NHS prescription charge for it, unless you get free prescriptions (for example if you’re under 16, 60 or over, pregnant, or get certain benefits). Check if you get free prescriptions.
Questions people ask
When can my child go back to school?
Once the sores have dried and crusted over, or 48 hours after they started treatment, whichever is sooner. The pharmacist will tell you which applies.
Is it caused by poor hygiene?
No. Impetigo is caused by common bacteria and anyone can get it. Good hand-washing helps stop it spreading.
Do I need an appointment?
No. Walk in any time we’re open and ask for Pharmacy First. If you’d rather not wait, book a time online. GP surgeries and NHS 111 can also send you to us.
How long does it take?
About 15 minutes with the pharmacist. If they’re with someone else, you may have a short wait.
Will my GP know?
Yes. We send a short note to your GP surgery afterwards, so your medical record stays up to date.
Is it private?
Yes. You’ll be seen in our private consultation room.
What should I bring?
A list of any medicines you take, including ones you buy yourself. Children under 16 should come with a parent or guardian.
Ready to be seen?
Walk in any time we’re open: Monday to Saturday, 8:00am to 10:30pm. Sunday, 12 noon to 10:30pm. Or book a time and skip the wait.