9 July 2026

Number of children visiting the general practioner with impetigo increases

The number of children aged 0-14 who come to the general practitioner with currant beard (impetigo) has been increasing in recent weeks. This is shown by figures from the Nivel (only in Dutch). This type of increase is more common in the summer. Impetigo is an infectious inflammation of the skin caused by bacteria. It can be treated with an antibiotic ointment. 

You can do a lot yourself to prevent infection. Wash hands regularly with soap and water. Try not to touch the vesicles and the fluid from the vesicles. Make sure your child does not scratch the vesicles and crusts. Clean well objects that are touched a lot, such as door handles and toys that are shared.

Read more advice to prevent impetigo.