Bacterial infection causes impetigo, while viral infection causes cold sores.
Impetigo and cold sores can spread to others but are also preventable.
There are three types of impetigo:
Nonbullous impetigo is the most common throw in.
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It usually shows up when skin has been damaged or irritated.
The honey-colored crust that forms over the sores is a telltale sign of this form of impetigo.
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This video has been medically reviewed byCasey Gallagher, MD.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet New Zealandwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
One of two types of bacterial infection causes impetigo, whereas a viral infection causes cold sores.
Anyone can get impetigo, but children are more at risk.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.
Reproduced with permission from DermNet New Zealandwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
It can also spread when kissing someone with a cold sore.
Many people with cold sores have gotten HSV-1 as young children.
Impetigo Prevention
Because bacterial infection causes impetigo, keeping skin clean is key to prevention.
Covering affected areas with gauze and tape can help prevent impetigo from spreading to others.
Another trigger may be stress.
A healthcare providers diagnosis is important for learning what treatments are available.
Nemours TeensHealth.Cold sores (HSV-1): symptoms, causes & prevention.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Cold sores.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Impetigo.
