Is impetigo more common in adults or children?

The skin infection impetigo most commonly occurs in children between 2 and 5 years old, but the condition can also develop in individuals of all ages, explains the American Academy of Family Physicians. Impetigo is extremely contagious and is the most common bacterial skin disease amongst children.

Impetigo is typically spread via contact with infected individuals and by sharing items such as towels and clothing that are contaminated with the bacteria, explains Boots WebMD. An impetigo infection usually presents as a blistered area that breaks open and oozes liquid. The blistered areas eventually form a crust with a grainy texture and may spread to other parts of the skin.