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09 May 2011
Dear Parent
IMPETIGO/COLD SORE VIRUS
We appear to have a small amount of pupils who have been diagnosed with Impetigo/Cold Sore Virus. Please be aware of this and check if your child has any of the symptoms.
Impetigo, a skin infection caused by bacteria, begins as small fluid-filled blisters on the skin (at this stage you must consult your Doctor) which then break open, showing redness of the skin and leaking clear fluid. Soon after, a honey-coloured crust develops over the area before it finally heals, which takes at least one to two weeks.
Although impetigo can be found anywhere on the body, it is most common around the lips, nose and ears. It can be itchy, but usually is not painful. Since it is contagious (spread from one person to another), keep the area clean and dry. It would help if your child does not scratch or touch the area, and washes the hands well and often. Impetigo can be treated with a topical antibiotic. If the infection seems to be spreading or involves many areas of the body, your child may need to take an oral antibiotic to clear it up.
Your child will not be permitted to school until 48 hours after antibiotics have been administered.
Please reiterate to your child the importance of hand washing after toileting and before meals.
Yours sincerely
LJ Coverdale
Headteacher
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