Impetigo NHS Treatment Guide: What to Expect at Your Local Pharmacy

If you or your child has developed a red, crusty rash that looks a bit like dried honey, it could be impetigo—a common and highly contagious skin infection. While impetigo is usually mild, it can be unpleasant and spreads easily, especially among children.

At Mistrys Pharmacy in Market Harborough, we’re here to offer quick, effective support through the impetigo NHS treatment pathway. Many people aren’t aware that they can now access treatment for impetigo directly from their local pharmacy—without the need for a GP appointment. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what impetigo is, how it’s treated, and what to expect when you visit your pharmacy.

What Is Impetigo?

Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection most commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. It typically affects the face—around the nose and mouth—but can appear anywhere on the body. The infection starts as red sores or blisters, which then burst and develop a yellow-brown crust.

It’s especially common in young children but can affect adults too, particularly those with compromised skin or close contact with infected individuals.

Symptoms of Impetigo

If you’re unsure whether it’s impetigo, look out for the following signs:

• Red sores or blisters, often starting around the mouth or nose

• Honey-coloured crusts that form over the sores

• Itching or mild discomfort

• Spreading of the rash to other parts of the body

• In some cases, swollen glands

It’s important not to touch or scratch the area, as this can spread the infection further.

Impetigo NHS Treatment: What Are Your Options?

Thanks to NHS Pharmacy First and other local NHS schemes, many community pharmacies are now able to offer impetigo NHS treatment directly—without the need for a GP referral. At Mistrys Pharmacy, we provide confidential, walk-in consultations for skin conditions like impetigo, making it quicker and easier to access care.

Here’s what the process typically involves:

Step 1: Pharmacy Consultation

You’ll begin with a private consultation in our pharmacy consultation room. One of our trained pharmacists will ask about your symptoms, how long they’ve been present, and whether you’ve had impetigo before. In most cases, we can make a diagnosis based on the appearance of the rash.

For children, a parent or guardian will be asked to provide medical history and consent.

Step 2: Treatment Recommendation

If impetigo is confirmed, we can provide treatment under the Pharmacy First NHS scheme. This usually involves:

• Topical antibiotics, such as fusidic acid cream, applied directly to the affected area

• In more widespread or persistent cases, a short course of oral antibiotics may be recommended

The pharmacist will advise on how and when to use the medication, what to expect, and how to avoid spreading the infection.

Step 3: Advice and Aftercare

Alongside treatment, we’ll provide advice on:

• Keeping the area clean and uncovered

• Avoiding touching or scratching the rash

• Washing hands frequently

• Keeping children off school or nursery until at least 48 hours after treatment has started or until the sores have crusted over

This practical advice helps prevent recurrence and protects others from catching the infection.

When to See a GP Instead

While most cases of impetigo can be managed in the pharmacy, there are times when a GP referral is necessary. You may be advised to see your doctor if:

• The rash is very extensive or spreading rapidly

• There are signs of worsening infection (pain, swelling, fever)

• You’ve had repeated bouts of impetigo

• Oral antibiotics are needed and cannot be supplied by the pharmacy

In such cases, we’ll guide you on how to access further medical care promptly.

Why Choose Your Pharmacy for Impetigo NHS Care?

Choosing your local pharmacy for impetigo NHS treatment comes with many benefits:

• No appointment needed

• Fast access to treatment

• Expert clinical advice from trained healthcare professionals

• Convenient and local support

At Mistrys Pharmacy, we’re proud to serve the Market Harborough community with accessible Pharmacy First healthcare that saves time and supports busy families.

Visit Mistrys Pharmacy

Impetigo is an unpleasant but treatable condition—and with NHS services now available at your local pharmacy, there’s no need to wait for a GP appointment. If you suspect you or your child has impetigo, visit Mistrys Pharmacy for prompt care, personalised advice, and access to impetigo NHS treatment.

We’re here to help you feel better, faster. Pop in and speak to our friendly team, or contact us today to check eligibility for NHS treatment.

This blog was written on behalf of Mistrys Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.

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