Recurrent skin and soft tissue infections

SSTIs include conditions like boils, abscesses, impetigo, and cellulitis. They can be caused by bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus. If your child experiences frequent infections, their doctor may recommend a combination of hygiene measures and medical treatments, such as decolonisation.

Maintaining good hygiene is crucial to prevent infections and stop them from spreading. Follow these steps:

1. Hand Hygiene

• Teach your child to wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Use alcohol-based hand sanitiser if soap and water are unavailable.

2. Cleaning and Wound Care

• Cover all wounds with a clean, dry dressing until healed.
• Avoid squeezing or touching sores or boils.
• Dispose of used dressings carefully, sealing them in a plastic bag before discarding them in the bin.

3. Personal Hygiene

• Use separate towels for each family member and wash them after each use.
• Encourage daily showers or baths for your child, especially when they have an active infection.

4. Laundry Tips

• Wash bedding, clothing, and towels frequently at a high temperature (60°C or higher).
• Use a hot tumble dryer setting to ensure thorough drying.
• Avoid sharing clothes or personal items like razors and hairbrushes.

5. Household Cleaning

• Regularly disinfect surfaces, especially in the bathroom and kitchen.
• Clean frequently touched items (e.g., doorknobs, light switches) with a household disinfectant.

If your child’s doctor prescribes decolonisation, it’s essential to follow the treatment plan carefully. Decolonisation involves using topical products to reduce bacteria on the skin and in the nose.

1. Topical Antiseptic

• Chlorhexidine gluconate (e.g., Hibiscrub) or Octenisan: used as a body wash to reduce bacteria. Apply to the skin as instructed, avoiding the eyes and ears.
• Ensure your child washes with the antiseptic solution daily for the prescribed duration, usually 5–7 days.

2. Nasal Decolonisation

• Mupirocin ointment: Applied inside the nostrils to reduce bacterial carriage.
• Use a small amount of ointment in each nostril 2–3 times a day, as directed by your doctor.
• Encourage your child to avoid touching their nose to prevent recontamination.

When to Seek Medical Help

Contact your GP if:

• The infection worsens or doesn’t improve after a few days of treatment.
• Your child develops a fever or becomes unwell.
• There are signs of spreading infection, such as redness spreading from the wound.

Preventing Recurrence

• Follow all hygiene measures consistently.
• Complete any prescribed decolonisation treatments.
• Inform your child’s school or nursery if there is an outbreak of infections to help prevent spreading.

By working together, you can help reduce the risk of recurrent infections and keep your family healthy. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to speak to your local pharmacist or you child’s GP practice.