Impetigo Treatment in Hornchurch Pharmacy
Impetigo is a highly contagious skin infection that can spread rapidly through families and schools. At Healthcare Pharmacy, we offer fast and professional impetigo treatment in our Hornchurch pharmacy. You don’t have to wait for a GP appointment; as part of the NHS Pharmacy First service, our pharmacists can assess and treat impetigo for adults and children aged 1 year and over. As a long-standing local pharmacy, we provide a caring, clinical environment where you can get the right medication and advice to clear the infection quickly.
Identifying the Rash | Impetigo Support at our Hornchurch Chemist
Recognising the early signs is key to preventing the spread. If you are looking for impetigo rash support at a Hornchurch chemist, our team is here to help you identify the symptoms.
What is Impetigo?
Impetigo is a very contagious skin infection. It is usually not serious and can clear within 7-10 days with treatment. It can affect anyone but it is more common in young children.
What causes Impetigo?
Impetigo is caused by bacterial infection. The two main causative bacteria are group A Streptococcus and Staphylococcus aureus. When the skin barrier is broken, it is susceptible to impetigo infection. It is recommended that you keep any cuts, scratches or insect bites to the skin clean by for example washing it with soap and warm water. Get treatment for any skin condition that can lead to broken skin, such as eczema. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further advice.
What are the main signs and symptoms of Impetigo?
Impetigo is generally a mild infection that can affect anyone and it can occur anywhere on the body. However, it is most commonly found:
- Near the mouth and nose areas
- On arms and legs
The symptoms start as itchy red sores and blisters. These burst within a few days leaving brown, golden crusty patches.
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Private Clinical Consultation
Speak with an experienced pharmacist for personalised healthcare advice based on your medical history and individual requirements.
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Select a time that suits you and book your consultation quickly with our simple online appointment system.
Expert Pharmacy Guidance
Receive professional advice, treatment recommendations and ongoing support from our knowledgeable pharmacy team.
What to expect from our service
- Clinical Assessment: A private review of the rash by a qualified pharmacist.
- Effective Treatment: If appropriate, we can supply antibiotic creams (like Hydrogen Peroxide or Fusidic Acid) or oral antibiotics directly.
- Hygiene Guidance: We provide essential impetigo help & treatment in theHornchurch, including tips on how to stop the infection from spreading to others in your household.
- Contagion Advice: Guidance on when it is safe for children to return to school or nursery.
Advice and treatment for other common conditions in Hornchurch
The Pharmacy First Service is an NHS service designed to offer free advice and treatments to eligible patients for seven common conditions including Impetigo. Patients can access this service at Healthcare Pharmacy in Hornchurch. The additional six conditions covered by this service are:
- Urinary Tract Infections
- Sore Throat
- Sinusitis
- Shingles
- Infected Insect Bite
- Impetigo
Useful Links:
You can check the following websites for the latest news and updates on impetigo, treatments, and NHS health advice:
Frequently Asked Question
Can a pharmacist prescribe treatment for impetigo?
Yes. Under the NHS Pharmacy First scheme, our pharmacists in Hornchurch can assess patients aged 1 year and over for impetigo. If the infection is localised, we can provide antibiotic cream or hydrogen peroxide cream. For more widespread cases, we can provide oral antibiotics all without a GP prescription.
How long is impetigo contagious?
Impetigo is very infectious. You or your child will remain contagious until the sores have completely scabbed over and healed, or until 48 hours after starting the prescribed antibiotic treatment.
How can I stop impetigo from spreading?
To prevent the infection from spreading to other parts of the body or other people:
- Do not scratch or pick the sores.
- Wash your hands frequently.
- Use separate towels and flannels for the infected person.
- Wash towels and bed linen at a high temperature.
When can my child go back to school?
According to NHS guidelines, children should stay away from school or nursery until 48 hours after they have started their antibiotic treatment, or until the sores have crusted over and healed.
What if the treatment doesn't work?
Most cases of impetigo start to clear up within a few days of starting treatment. If the sores are still spreading or haven’t improved after a week of treatment, you should return to our Hornchurch pharmacy or see your GP, as the infection may be resistant to the initial antibiotic.
Professional Disclaimer
The information on this page is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not a substitute for a consultation with an appropriately qualified healthcare professional. Suitability for any treatment or service will be assessed on an individual basis by our pharmacy team, and outcomes cannot be guaranteed. If you have concerns about your health, please speak to your GP, contact NHS 111, or, in an emergency, call 999.
Our Pharmacy In Hornchurch
- Healthcare Pharmacy
- 2 Tadworth Parade, Hornchurch RM12 5AS, United Kingdom
- +44 17084 51459
- healthcarepharmacy.elmpark@gmail.com
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Pharmacy Info
- GPhC Registration Number: 2218985
- Limited Company Registration No: 14669990
- Superintendent pharmacist: Harnish Shah
Contact Info
- Name: Healthcare Pharmacy
- +44 1708 451459
- healthcarepharmacy.elmpark@gmail.com
- 2 Tadworth Parade, Hornchurch RM12 5AS, United Kingdom
Working Hours
- Monday - Friday: 8:30am to 6:00pm
- Saturday: 9:00am to 1:00pm
- Sunday: Closed
