Impetigo while visiting Sweden
Medically reviewed by Dr Toha Soodhun, specialist in family medicine · 15 November 2026
Impetigo is a contagious bacterial skin infection, most common in children but possible at any age. Small blisters or sores, often around the nose and mouth, break and form yellow, honey-coloured crusts. Small areas usually heal with careful washing. If it spreads, covers a large area, or comes with fever, you need a doctor and sometimes antibiotics.
Treating it yourself
- Wash the sores carefully with liquid soap and water morning and evening, and pat dry with paper.
- Soften and gently remove the crusts — a wet compress for a few minutes helps.
- A chlorhexidine wash from the pharmacy can be used as well.
- Use your own towel or paper towels, change pillowcases daily and wash hands often.
What a video doctor can do
On camera the doctor can usually see whether it is impetigo, how widespread it is, and whether washing is enough or antibiotics are needed. Depending on how severe it is, the doctor may want to see you at one of our clinics, or arrange a visit to your hotel or home.
See a doctor in person if…
- The sores have not healed after a week of washing
- It keeps spreading or covers a large area of skin
- You or your child also has a fever
Our clinics in Gothenburg, Stockholm and Malmö can usually see you the same day (3,200 SEK, or +700 SEK after a video consultation). If you cannot come in, we can visit you at your hotel or home in central Gothenburg, Stockholm or Malmö — see prices.
Seek emergency care or call 112 if…
- Rapidly spreading painful redness, high fever and feeling very unwell
Questions
Is impetigo contagious?
Yes, as long as the sores are moist. Good hand hygiene and not sharing towels reduce the spread.
Can my child go to school or day care?
Rules differ, but in Sweden younger children usually stay at home until the sores are completely dry.
See a licensed Swedish doctor by video
2,500 SEK · No personnummer or BankID · Insurance documents included
Get Medical HelpLife-threatening? Call 112.