If you or your child are aged 1 or over and might have impetigo, you can see a pharmacist instead of your GP. Under the NHS Pharmacy First service the pharmacist looks at the skin and offers advice, and medicine if it is right for you.
Reviewed by Benjamin Rawthore, Pharmacist Manager and Independent Prescriber (GPhC 2215432). Last reviewed .
Common signs
- Red sores or blisters, often around the nose and mouth
- Sores that burst and leave crusty, golden-brown patches
- Itchy or sore skin around the patches
What the pharmacist does
- Looks at the affected skin
- Advises on stopping it spreading to other people
- Offers medicine if it is right for you under the NHS pathway
- Tells you if you need to see a GP or someone else, and helps you get there
The consultation is free on the NHS. The usual prescription charges apply to any medicine you are given, unless you get free prescriptions.
Questions people ask
Should my child stay off school?
Impetigo spreads easily. NHS advice is to stay away from school, nursery or work until the patches have healed and crusted over, or for 48 hours after starting treatment.
Do I have to pay?
The consultation is free on the NHS. The usual prescription charges apply to any medicine you are given, unless you get free prescriptions.
Will my GP practice know?
Yes. The pharmacist updates your GP record after the consultation, so your notes stay complete.