Wash the affected area gently with soap and water
Keep the skin clean and dry
Remove crusts with warm wet compresses before applying treatment
Apply a prescribed topical antibiotic such as mupirocin or retapamulin
Take an oral antibiotic if the infection is widespread, severe, or not improving
Finish the full course of antibiotics exactly as prescribed
Avoid scratching or picking at the sores
Cover the lesions with loose, clean bandages if needed
Wash hands frequently
Keep nails short and clean
Avoid sharing towels, clothing, bedding, or personal items
Wash clothing, towels, and bedding in hot water
Stay home from school, daycare, or work until no longer contagious as advised by a clinician
Seek medical care if symptoms worsen, spread, or do not improve within a few days
Seek urgent care if there is fever, rapidly spreading redness, pain, swelling, or signs of deeper infection