What happens after a telemedicine visit for Impetigo

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for impetigo, you will usually receive advice on how to care for the skin and may get a prescription for medicine to help clear the infection. Impetigo is a common skin infection, especially in children, that causes red sores that can burst and form a yellow crust. Treatment often includes antibiotic creams or oral antibiotics. During the visit, the healthcare provider will check the affected areas using video or photos and ask about symptoms. After the visit, follow the care instructions carefully, watch for any changes, and keep the skin clean. If the infection does not improve or gets worse, or if new symptoms appear, you may need to see a healthcare provider in person. Telemedicine helps you get care quickly and safely from home, but some situations require in-person visits for further treatment.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Fever above 38°C (100.4°F) or feeling very unwell — seek urgent medical care.
• Rapidly spreading redness, swelling, or pain around the sores — see a healthcare provider immediately.
• Signs of infection spreading beyond the skin, such as swollen lymph nodes, difficulty breathing, or severe headache — get emergency care.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of impetigo symptoms and skin appearance via video or photos.
• Providing guidance on wound care and hygiene.
• Prescribing topical or oral antibiotics when appropriate.
• Monitoring mild to moderate cases for improvement through follow-up visits.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe or rapidly worsening infections needing urgent in-person evaluation.
• Complications such as cellulitis or systemic infection.
• Cases where diagnosis is unclear and requires physical examination or lab tests.
• Situations requiring surgical intervention or hospitalization.

What to expect right after your telemedicine visit

Your healthcare provider will explain the diagnosis and recommend treatment, which often includes antibiotic ointments or oral antibiotics. They may give you instructions on how to clean the skin and care for sores. You might receive a prescription sent to your pharmacy or instructions on where to get medicine.

How to care for impetigo at home

Keep the affected area clean by gently washing with soap and water. Avoid touching or scratching the sores to prevent spreading the infection. Wash your hands often and keep your child's nails trimmed. Use the medicine exactly as directed, even if the sores start to heal.

When to expect improvement

With proper treatment, impetigo usually starts to get better within a few days. The redness and sores should slowly heal over one to two weeks. If you do not see improvement or if symptoms worsen, contact your healthcare provider.

Preventing spread to others

Impetigo is contagious. Keep your child’s sores covered with clean bandages. Avoid close contact with others until the infection is healed. Wash bedding, towels, and clothing regularly. Teach your child good hand hygiene.

Follow-up care and next steps

Your provider may schedule a follow-up visit to check healing, either by telemedicine or in person. If new symptoms develop or the infection spreads, you may need an in-person evaluation. Always reach out if you have concerns or questions about the treatment.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Make sure the affected skin areas are clean and visible for the video or photos.
• Have a list of current symptoms and any previous treatments ready to share.
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss with the healthcare provider.
• Ensure a good internet connection and a quiet, private space for the visit.
• Have a caregiver present if the patient is a young child.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the prescribed treatment plan exactly, including medication use.
• Keep the infected area clean and covered as advised.
• Monitor the skin daily for signs of improvement or worsening.
• Practice good hand hygiene and avoid touching sores.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms do not improve or new symptoms develop.

FAQs

How long does impetigo usually take to heal?

Impetigo often starts to improve within a few days of starting treatment and typically heals within one to two weeks with proper care.

Can impetigo spread to other parts of the body?

Yes, impetigo can spread if sores are scratched or touched. Keeping the area clean and covered helps prevent spreading to other skin areas or people.

Is it safe to send photos of my child's skin for diagnosis?

Yes, sending clear photos can help healthcare providers assess the skin condition remotely. Make sure photos are well-lit and focused on the affected areas.

What should I do if the medicine causes irritation?

If you notice increased redness, swelling, or discomfort after applying medicine, stop using it and contact your healthcare provider for advice.

When should I seek in-person care after a telemedicine visit?

Seek in-person care if the infection worsens quickly, if your child develops a fever, or if you notice signs of spreading infection such as swelling or pain beyond the sores.

Sources

1. Impetigo — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Impetigo: Diagnosis and Treatment — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Impetigo — Mayo Clinic.
4. Impetigo: Overview — Merck Manuals: Consumer Version.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Telemedicine guidance does not replace in-person evaluation when needed. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions and seek immediate care if you experience serious symptoms or emergencies.