What is impetigo?

  • Impetigo is a skin infection caused by one or both of the following bacteria: group A Streptococcus and Staphylococcus aureus. 
  • When group A strep infects the skin, it causes sores. The bacteria can spread to others if someone touches those sores or comes into contact with fluid from the sores.

Is this a reportable illness?

  • This is not a reportable illness to CDPH but consult with your school nurse to confirm this diagnosis with parents or the medical provider.
    • Please note clusters of 10 or more linked, lab-diagnosed cases, within a 10 day period should be reported to CDPH.

What do schools need to do next?

  • Sick Person
    • Sores should be covered and excluded at the end of the day, to return 24 hours after treatment is started.
    • Avoid scratching skin and lesions; avoid direct contact with skin lesions
      • Keep skin lesions covered where possible.
      • Recommend nails be kept short and trimmed when itchy lesions are present
  • No action for close contacts.
  • No special cleaning.
    • Standard Best Practices
      • Good handwashing and hygiene practices.
      • Proper disposal of soiled tissues.
      • Avoid sharing linens, hair supplies, or clothing items
      • Proper disinfection of surfaces and toys

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