The best way to prevent many skin infections is to keep the skin clean. Any cuts, scrapes, insect bites, burns or other wounds should be cleaned and treated promptly to prevent infection. People can also prevent impetigo by avoiding contact with infected patients.

People with impetigo can limit the spread of sores both to themselves and to others by:

• Seeking treatment as soon as possible and taking medications as directed by their physician.
  
  
• Staying home until the infection is no longer contagious. A child with impetigo should be kept out of school or other activities, usually until 24 hours after treatment has begun.
  
  
• Gently cleaning the affected areas with a mild soap or cleanser and then covering the areas lightly with gauze or another type of nonstick dressing.
  
  
• Washing clothing, bedding and towels daily if infected.  These items should not be shared with others.  
  
  
• Wearing gloves when applying antibiotic ointments and washing hands thoroughly afterward.
  
  
• Refraining from scratching or touching the lesions until they heal. If necessary, cut children’s nails to prevent them from scratching the lesions.
  
  
• Not preparing or handling food until given approval from their physician.