Dermatology

Impetigo consultation

Impetigo can often be assessed through community pharmacy or primary care. The consultation checks that the presentation fits, rules out a more serious infection and explains treatment and how to reduce spread.

What we cover

A clinician assessing a small superficial patch near an adult patient’s chin

Assessment-led

Appointment20 min

ClinicsLetterbox + Belsize

StandardTriage + safety netting

What we cover

A clearer picture before any recommendation.

Where the sores began, how quickly they spread and whether there is pain, fever or wider illness.

Age, pregnancy or breastfeeding, immune status, recurrent episodes and medicines or allergies.

Eligibility for community treatment, infection-control advice and when GP review is safer.

Where this care sits

Start in the right place.

Usual care pathway

Generally managed in community pharmacy or primary care. In England, eligible people aged 1 year and over may be assessed through NHS Pharmacy First; severe, recurrent or systemic illness needs escalation.

Do not wait for a routine appointment

Rapid spread, significant pain, swelling, fever, a very young baby, immune suppression or feeling generally unwell needs GP or urgent assessment.

The Pharmacillin view

The right plan starts with understanding what matters—and knowing when not to treat.

Images are illustrative and show the area or consultation experience. They are not patient outcomes or promises of a particular result.

Your consultation

Three considered steps.

An unrushed structure gives you the information and space needed to make an informed choice.

History

We map when the concern began, how it has changed, associated symptoms, triggers and treatments already tried.

Skin assessment

The presentation, distribution and relevant health factors are reviewed, including whether the diagnosis remains uncertain.

Right pathway

You leave with a clear primary-care plan, safety-net advice or onward referral when specialist assessment is more appropriate.

Important considerations

Suitability comes first.

Impetigo is contagious and can spread through skin contact, towels and bedding.
Complete any prescribed course exactly as directed, even if the skin improves earlier.
Recurrent infection may need swabs or a broader medical review.

After your appointment

Clear care beyond the clinic.

Follow the written skin-care or medicine guidance agreed during the consultation.
Know which changes mean you should seek earlier clinical review.
Persistent, worsening or uncertain symptoms are escalated to the appropriate service.

Checked against UK guidance

Read the authoritative source.

This page supports a consultation; it cannot diagnose a rash or replace individual medical advice. Guidance can change, so the source page is the best place to check the latest version.

NHSImpetigo NHS EnglandPharmacy First