Skin Infections in Children

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The onset of summer brings with it several skin infections. Because of high humidity, heat and sweating the child is liable to develop infections of the skin specially caused by staphylococcus Aureus. These are known as impetigo. They are rounded coin shaped lesions occurring anywhere in the body, with redness and itching or sometimes with a pussy discharge. As the child scratches from one part to another, these lesions spread. In addition, small boils develop anywhere in the body. These boils may develop pus and the infection can get deep, developing an abcess. The abcess initially is a red, hot and tender area. Later pus develops and it becomes yellowish and painful. The pus may also discharge.



 According to Dr Mubina Agboatwalla - A Child Specialist in Karachi, these skin infections can be prevented by the use of an anti bacterial soap and keeping the body clean by frequent baths. The nails of the child should be trimmed so that there is less scratching. Anti allergies should be given to prevent scratching and spreading of infections. Initially, antibiotic ointment should be applied. As the infection spreads, further oral and sometimes intravenous antibiotics should be given. Sometimes the abcess needs to be drained.

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