impetigo (school sores)
the complete guide to the childcare exclusion period for impetigo (school sores) in Australia — how long to keep your child home, symptoms to watch for, and when they can return.
exclusion period
until appropriate antibiotic treatment has started and all sores on exposed skin are covered with a watertight dressing
symptoms
- •red sores or blisters (usually around the nose and mouth)
- •sores that burst and form a golden-yellow crust
- •itching
- •swollen lymph nodes nearby
incubation period
1-10 days
contagious period
while sores are weeping or moist. no longer contagious 24 hours after starting antibiotic treatment, as long as sores are covered.
notes for parents
impetigo is caused by bacteria (streptococcus or staphylococcus). it spreads easily through direct contact. all exposed sores must be covered with watertight dressings for the child to attend.
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the complete illness-by-illness guide
this guide is for informational purposes only. exclusion periods are based on the NHMRC's Staying Healthy guidelines and were accurate at the time of writing. always consult your child's GP or childcare centre for specific advice. mini mode is not a medical service and is not affiliated with any government department.