Impetigo treatment in Medway

What is this service

Impetigo is a common bacterial skin infection that causes red sores and crusty patches. Our Pharmacy First service provides fast, free treatment in Chatham without needing a GP appointment.

Impetigo is a highly contagious skin infection caused by bacteria such as staphylococcus or streptococcus. It typically affects the superficial layers of skin and presents as red sores that develop into fluid-filled blisters. These blisters rupture easily and form a yellowish or honey-coloured crust, which is the hallmark sign of impetigo. The infection spreads readily through direct contact, making early treatment essential to prevent transmission to others.

At Chatham Pharmacy, we treat impetigo quickly and effectively through the NHS Pharmacy First scheme. Our trained pharmacists can assess your skin infection, prescribe the appropriate antibiotic treatment, and provide clear guidance on managing your condition at home. Whether you need topical antibiotic cream or oral antibiotics, we'll ensure you receive the right medication to clear the infection fast. Treatment is completely free through Pharmacy First, and you can book an appointment online or visit us in Chatham, Medway.

The pharmacist was brilliant. I got seen quickly, received my treatment on the spot, and my skin cleared up within days. No waiting around at the GP surgery.

What to expect

Getting treated for impetigo at Chatham Pharmacy is straightforward and hassle-free. Here's what happens from booking to recovery.

Book your appointment online or call us in Chatham. You can choose a time that suits you, avoiding the need to queue at your GP surgery. Tell us briefly about your skin concern when booking so our pharmacist can be fully prepared for your visit.

During your consultation, our pharmacist will examine the affected area and ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any medications you're currently taking. This assessment takes around 10 to 15 minutes. We'll confirm whether it's impetigo and discuss the best treatment option for you, whether that's antibiotic cream for mild cases or oral antibiotics for more widespread infection.

Once treatment is agreed, you'll receive your medication immediately at Chatham Pharmacy. We'll provide clear instructions on how to apply creams or take tablets, how often to use them, and what to expect during your recovery. You can also choose home delivery if you prefer not to visit in person.

Most people notice improvement within 3 to 7 days of starting antibiotics. The sores will dry up, the crust will soften, and itching will reduce. Continue your treatment for the full prescribed course, even if you feel better, to prevent the infection from returning. If your symptoms don't improve or get worse, contact us for advice.

Why choose us

Chatham Pharmacy offers convenient, expert impetigo treatment through the NHS Pharmacy First scheme. Get fast relief without the GP waiting list.

We're part of the NHS Pharmacy First scheme, which means you can access treatment for impetigo directly from our pharmacist without needing a GP appointment. This saves you time and gets you treated faster. Our team in Chatham, Medway, is trained to diagnose and treat impetigo confidently, and we see patients of all ages, from children to adults.

Treatment through us is completely free on the NHS. You won't pay for the consultation, the assessment, or the medication. We stock a full range of antibiotic creams and oral antibiotics, so you can start treatment immediately after your appointment. If you prefer, we can also arrange home delivery of your medication to your address in Chatham or the surrounding areas.

Our pharmacists take time to explain your condition clearly and give you practical advice on managing impetigo at home. We'll tell you exactly how to apply your treatment, what to expect during recovery, and when to seek further help if needed. We're also here for follow-up support. If your symptoms don't improve or you have questions about your treatment, simply contact us for advice.

Choosing Chatham Pharmacy means choosing local, accessible healthcare. We're conveniently located in Chatham and open at times that work for busy families. Whether you need to pop in during your lunch break or visit with your children after school, we're here to help you get treated quickly and get back to normal.

I was worried about waiting weeks for a GP appointment, but Chatham Pharmacy sorted me out the same day. The pharmacist knew exactly what to do, and my skin cleared up quickly.