Impetigo Treatment at Parnell Pharmacy, Bow - NHS Pharmacy First
Impetigo is a highly contagious skin infection that requires prompt attention to prevent it from spreading to other parts of the body or other people. At Parnell Pharmacy on Roman Road, we provide expert impetigo treatment in Bow, London E3. Through the NHS Pharmacy First scheme, our pharmacists can clinically assess the infection and provide the necessary antibiotic treatment without a GP prescription.
What Is Impetigo?
Impetigo is a common bacterial skin infection that causes sores and blisters. It is most frequently seen in children but can affect adults as well. While it isn’t usually serious, it is very easy to pass on through close contact or shared items like towels and toys. Getting treated early at our pharmacy helps clear the infection faster and reduces the “contagious period.”
Impetigo Symptoms in Children and Adults
The infection usually starts with red sores or blisters, but the appearance can change quickly. Look out for these symptoms:
- Crusty Sores: Red sores that quickly burst and leave crusty, golden-brown patches (often described as looking like honey).
- Fluid-Filled Blisters: Small blisters that may be itchy or painful.
- Location: Sores often appear around the nose and mouth, but can spread to the arms and legs.
- Itching: The affected area can be very itchy, but scratching leads to further spreading.
How Our Pharmacist Treats Impetigo
When you visit Parnell Pharmacy in Bow, our pharmacist will conduct a consultation in a private room. We will examine the affected area to confirm if it is non-bullous impetigo. If appropriate, we can prescribe:
- Hydrogen Peroxide Cream: Often the first line of treatment for localized sores.
- Antibiotic Creams: For more persistent cases.
- Oral Antibiotics: If the infection is more widespread.
Who Is Eligible for Free Treatment?
Under the NHS Pharmacy First initiative, we can provide impetigo treatment for:
- Adults and children aged 1 year and over.
- Patients with localized, uncomplicated impetigo.
Note: For very young infants (under 1) or those with bullous impetigo (large, fluid-filled blisters), our pharmacist will provide an immediate referral to a GP or specialist.
Preventing the Spread of Impetigo
Because impetigo spreads so easily, we recommend the following while the infection is active:
- Stay Home: Children should stay away from school or nursery until the sores have crusted over or until 48 hours after starting antibiotic treatment.
- Hygiene: Do not share towels, flannels, or bed sheets.
- Hand Washing: Wash hands regularly and try to discourage children from scratching the sores.
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Expert Pharmacy Guidance
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Yes. Via the NHS Pharmacy First service, our pharmacists can assess the skin and prescribe topical or oral antibiotics for non-bullous impetigo.
Yes, for adults and children aged 1+ who are eligible under the Pharmacy First scheme, the consultation and clinical service are free. Standard prescription charges apply unless you are exempt.
Yes impetigo spreads very easily through direct contact. To prevent outbreaks, patients should stay home until lesions are crusted or 48 hours after starting treatment.
Seek urgent medical care if you develop a high fever, the redness starts spreading rapidly, or if you notice large, fluid-filled blisters (bullous impetigo), as these may require more intensive care.
Our Pharmacy In Bow
- Parnell Pharmacy
- Parnell Pharmacy, 625-627 Roman Rd, Bow, London E3 2RN
- 02089803376
- parnell.pharmacy@nhs.net
Quick Links
Pharmacy Info
- GPhC Registration Number : 1040022
- Limited Company Registration No : 07326838
- Superintendent pharmacist : Shayem Siddiqui
Reach Us
- Name: Parnell Pharmacy
- Parnell Pharmacy, 625-627 Roman Rd, Bow, London E3 2RN
- parnell.pharmacy@nhs.net
- 02089803376
Working Hours
- Mon - Sat : 09.00 am - 07.00 pm
- Sunday and bank holidays Closed
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Quick Links
Pharmacy Info
- GPhC Registration Number : 1040022
- Limited Company Registration No : 07326838
- Superintendent pharmacist : Shayem Siddiqui
Reach Us
- Name: Parnell Pharmacy
- Parnell Pharmacy, 625-627 Roman Rd, Bow, London E3 2RN
- parnell.pharmacy@nhs.net
- 02089803376
Working Hours
- Mon - Sat : 09.00 am - 07.00 pm
- Sunday and bank holidays Closed