Fast Assessment and Treatment for Impetigo (Skin Infection)
The Impetigo Pharmacy First Service Explained
Who is eligible?
- Adults and children aged 1 year and over with symptoms of suspected non-bullous impetigo.
What is Impetigo?
Key Symptoms to Look For:
- Starts as red sores or blisters.
- The sores quickly burst and leave crusty, golden-brown patches (often described as looking like 'stuck-on cornflakes').
- Commonly found around the nose and mouth
- It may be itchy.
What to expect during your visit
Walk In or Call
No appointment is strictly needed, but calling ahead is advised to ensure a pharmacist is available for a private consultation.
Private Consultation
The pharmacist will speak with you or the parent/carer in our private consultation room.
Clinical Assessment
The pharmacist will visually examine the affected area to confirm the diagnosis of impetigo and check if it is localised (3 or fewer lesions/clusters) or widespread (4 or more lesions/clusters).
Treatment Plan
Based on their assessment, the pharmacist can provide the appropriate treatment under the NHS service:
- Localised Impetigo: They may supply a topical treatment like Hydrogen Peroxide Cream or an antibiotic cream (e.g., Fusidic acid) to apply directly to the sores.
- Widespread Impetigo: They may supply an oral antibiotic (tablets/suspension) if a cream is not suitable or if the infection is more widespread.
- Referral.If the pharmacist suspects a more serious condition (like Bullous Impetigo, a widespread infection in an immunosuppressed patient, or cellulitis), or if it is a recurrent episode, they will refer you to your GP or an urgent care service.
Hygiene Advice
You will receive essential advice on how to stop the infection from spreading, including hygiene measures and when your child can return to school or nursery (typically 48 hours after starting antibacterial treatment).
GP Notification
We will update your GP health record with the details of your consultation and the treatment provided.
Exclusions – When to Contact Your GP
- Bullous Impetigo (large, fluid-filled blisters that last for days).
- Recurrent Impetigo (two or more episodes in the same year).
- Signs of a more serious illness (e.g., fever, feeling very unwell, pain, or widespread, rapidly worsening redness/swelling).
Find Us
Your Local Erdington Pharmacy
238 Wheelwright Road, Erdington, Birmingham, B24 8EH
Opening Hours:
Monday -Friday : 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sunday : Closed
Call Us: 0121 377 8811
Visit us today for a fast, local, and professional assessment for Impetigo.
Disclaimer: The NHS Pharmacy First service for Impetigo is available for individuals aged 1 year and over and is subject to clinical assessment and patient eligibility. Standard NHS prescription charges apply unless the patient is exempt.