What are some facts about impetigo?

Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that causes red, blistery, oozy sores that develop crusts, states WebMD.com. Streptococcus or staphylococcus bacteria cause impetigo when one of the bacterium comes in contact with skin that is irritated or injured.

The infection typically begins as small red spots that become blisters, especially around the mouth and nose, explains WebMD. Impetigo spreads as a result of direct contact, or by sharing linens, clothing, toys or anything else that infected individuals touch. Scratching spreads the infection, causing infected persons to spread it all over their bodies. This bacterial infection responds to topical or oral antibiotics prescription medications.