Impetigo is a common and highly contagious skin infection that can affect both children and adults. Although it is usually not serious, it can spread quickly and become uncomfortable if left untreated. At Kings Pharmacy in Birmingham, we offer fast, effective impetigo treatment through the NHS Pharmacy First scheme—helping you access the care you need without waiting for a GP appointment.
What is Impetigo?
Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection caused by either Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes.
It typically affects the outer layers of the skin and is most common in young children, although it can occur at any age. The infection spreads easily through close contact or by touching contaminated surfaces.
There are two main types of impetigo:
Non-bullous impetigo – the most common type, causing crusty sores
Bullous impetigo – less common, causing larger fluid-filled blisters
Symptoms of Impetigo
Impetigo often begins as small red spots or sores that quickly develop into distinctive crusty patches.
Common symptoms include:
Red sores or blisters that burst and form golden or “honey-coloured” crusts
Itchy or irritated skin
Patches typically around the nose, mouth, or exposed areas
Rapid spreading to other parts of the body
In most cases, impetigo is not painful, but it can be uncomfortable and unsightly.
How Impetigo Spreads
Impetigo is highly contagious and can spread easily through:
Direct skin-to-skin contact
Touching contaminated items such as towels, bedding, or clothing
Scratching infected areas and transferring bacteria to other parts of the body
Children are particularly susceptible due to close contact in schools and nurseries.
Fast Treatment Without a GP Appointment
Through the NHS Pharmacy First scheme, Kings Pharmacy provides impetigo assessment and treatment for eligible patients.
This means you can visit our pharmacy in Birmingham and receive expert advice and treatment—without needing to book a GP appointment.
What Happens During Your Consultation?
At Kings Pharmacy, your consultation will take place in a private consultation room to ensure comfort and confidentiality.
During your visit, the pharmacist will:
Ask about your symptoms and how the infection has developed
Examine the affected area (if appropriate)
Confirm whether the condition is suitable for Pharmacy First treatment
Recommend the most appropriate treatment
If necessary, you will be referred to your GP for further care.
Treatment Options for Impetigo
Treatment depends on the severity and extent of the infection. At Kings Pharmacy, we follow NHS clinical guidelines to ensure safe and effective care.
Topical Antibiotics
For mild cases, an antibiotic cream or ointment may be recommended. This is applied directly to the affected area and helps clear the infection quickly.
Oral Antibiotics
If the infection is more widespread or severe, oral antibiotics may be supplied under the NHS Pharmacy First scheme.
Hygiene Advice
Proper hygiene is essential to prevent the infection from spreading and to support healing.
Benefits of Choosing Kings Pharmacy
Choosing Kings Pharmacy for impetigo treatment offers several advantages:
No appointment needed – walk in at your convenience
Free NHS service for eligible patients
Quick access to treatment
Expert clinical advice
Convenient Birmingham location
We provide fast, effective care to help stop the infection spreading and speed up recovery.
Self-Care Advice for Impetigo
In addition to treatment, there are steps you can take at home:
Gently wash the affected area with soap and water
Soften and remove crusts carefully
Wash hands regularly
Keep nails short to prevent scratching
Cover affected areas loosely if necessary
Avoid using the same towels, bedding, or clothing as others until the infection clears.
How Long Does Impetigo Last?
With treatment, impetigo usually improves within 7 to 10 days. Without treatment, it may take longer to clear and is more likely to spread.
Children can usually return to school or nursery once:
48 hours after starting treatment, or
The sores have crusted over and healed
When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention
Although impetigo is usually mild, you should seek further medical advice if:
The infection is spreading rapidly
Symptoms do not improve with treatment
The affected area becomes swollen or painful
You develop a fever
The infection affects the eyes or deeper layers of the skin
In rare cases, complications such as Cellulitis can occur and require urgent treatment.
Preventing Impetigo
Preventing the spread of impetigo is important, especially in households and schools.
You can reduce the risk by:
Washing hands regularly
Avoiding close contact with infected individuals
Not sharing personal items like towels or clothing
Cleaning and covering cuts or grazes promptly
Maintaining good general hygiene
These measures help stop the bacteria from spreading.
Why Use the NHS Pharmacy First Service?
The NHS Pharmacy First scheme allows patients to receive treatment for common conditions—including impetigo—directly from a pharmacy.
This service helps:
Reduce pressure on GP surgeries
Provide faster access to care
Ensure timely treatment and reduce spread
Improve convenience for patients and families
Kings Pharmacy is proud to support this initiative, delivering high-quality NHS care to the Birmingham community.
Visit Kings Pharmacy Today
If you or your child may have impetigo, don’t delay treatment. Contact or visit Kings Pharmacy in Birmingham today for fast, professional, and confidential care.
Our experienced pharmacists are here to help you manage the infection quickly and safely—without the need for a GP appointment.
Book Your Impetigo Appointment
Use the link below to book your Pharmacy First appointment online: