Skin infections in children

Some common skin infections found in children are:

• boils and abscesses
• cellulitis
• school sores (impetigo)
• scabies
• fungal skin infections (tinea or ringworm).

Common breaks in the skin which can lead to infection are:

• cuts, scratches and grazes
• eczema
• insect bites.

A brief summary and a link to learn more is provided below. 

Boils and abscesses

These are red bumps or pimples with red skin around the outside caused by a lump of pus under the skin. You may be able to see white or yellow pus through the skin in the middle. It can be sore or itchy. A large boil is called an abscess. Read more about boils.

Image credit: Canva

Cellulitis

Cellulitis (pokenga kiri) is an infection of the deeper layers of the skin. The skin becomes red, painful, hot and swollen. Your child may get a fever and feel very unwell. Cellulitis can spread quickly and it’s important you get medical help straight away. Treating it early with antibiotics can stop the infection getting more serious. Read more about cellulitis.

Image credit: John Campbell via Wikimedia Commons(external link) 

Impetigo (school sores)

Impetigo is commonly known as school sores. It’s caused by 2 types of bacteria (strep or staph). It causes skin sores, usually on your hands and face, often around your mouth and nose. Impetigo spreads to other people very easily. It’s important to get treatment from a healthcare provider and keep children away from others to stop the spread. Read more about impetigo (school sores).

Image credit: DermNet

Scabies

Scabies (waihakihaki) is a contagious skin condition that causes a very itchy rash. The rash is caused by an allergic reaction to a tiny mite that burrows under your skin. It spreads very easily by skin-to-skin contact or touching bedding and clothing of somebody with scabies. It won’t go away by itself and everyone in your household will need to be treated. Read more about scabies.

Image credit: DermNet 

Tinea (fungal skin infections)

These are skin infections caused by a fungus. They’re known by different names depending on which part of your body is affected, such as athlete’s foot and scalp ringworm. With a fungal infection your skin may be red and itchy and may burn or sting. Find out more about the symptoms and treatment for the different types of tinea skin infection. 

Image credit: DermNet

Cuts, scratches and grazes

Broken skin allows bacteria to get through and cause an infection. It’s important to clean, cover and check broken skin and get advice if you see any signs of infection. Learn more about cuts and grazes.

Eczema

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition leading to dry, itchy and red skin. Because it’s itchy, children are likely to scratch and break the skin which can lead to an infection. If their eczema looks weepy and crusted, has little pimples or blisters in it, or is very painful or spreading, see your healthcare provider for advice. Read more about eczema in children.

Image credit: DermNet

Insect bites

After an insect bite you can get a raised red bump, possibly with a blister in the middle. It can be itchy or sore. If the red swollen area keeps getting bigger or more painful, if there is pus or it lasts longer than 2 weeks that could be a sign of infection so seek medical advice. Read more about insect bites.