Self care advice

Self care advice can include the following:

• Gently remove crusts by washing with antibacterial soap/liquid skin wash before applying the hydrogen peroxide cream
• Avoid touching patches of impetigo as you may spread the infection to other areas
• Always wash your hands with soap after accidentally touching the area
• Wash your hands before and after putting the cream or ointment on the impetigo
• Don’t share towels or flannels etc. until the infection has cleared. Always use a clean cloth each time to dry the affected area
• Launder the patient’s towels and bedlinen on the hottest available setting (at least 60°C) with the addition of laundry bleach
• Children with impetigo should be kept off school or nursery until affected areas have healed or 48 hours after starting antibiotic treatment.