Seven New Impetigo Cases Reported as Health Officials Confirm Significant Decline

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NASSAU , BAHAMAS – Seven new cases of impetigo have been reported in New Providence and Grand Bahama.

But health officials say the spread of the contagious skin condition appears to be slowing, with fewer cases reported in recent weeks.

Dr. Michael Darville – Minister of Health and Wellness

“While the reduction in new cases reported is encouraging for all of us, and it shows that our hygiene protocols are very effective, we must not become complacent.”

That warning comes as health officials report seven new impetigo cases in the country.

But the infection has been a concern for parents and teachers for weeks now.

You may remember that the spread of the infection forced the temporary closure of Gambier Primary School in New Providence and Samuel Guy Pinder All-Age School in Spanish Wells, Eleuthera.

Both schools underwent deep-cleaning exercises before reopening.

During Thursday’s weekly press briefing at the Office of the Prime Minister, Director of Public Health Dr. Philip Swann says fewer than 70 cases have been reported through the department’s surveillance system in recent weeks.

He also says the numbers are lower than those recorded around the same time last year.

And while the latest figures are encouraging, Swann says they are still keeping a close eye on the situation.

Dr. Philip Swann – Director of Public Health

“This week so far, as Dr. Darville mentioned, we would have had less than ten. There were four who came in yesterday, and then another three who came from Grand Bahama. Of course, the week isn’t finished here, but from that alone, you would think that there is a decrease, a significant decrease in the number of cases that we’re concerned about.”

But here’s the issue.

Health officials say they still don’t know exactly how many children across the country have contracted impetigo.

That’s because the skin infection is not a mandatory reportable disease.

As a result, some cases treated at private health facilities may not be reflected in the official figures.

Dr. Philip Swann – Director of Public Health

“I think it was in the middle school area, so I would say mid-between grades four and ten, within that grouping age. What about communities? Any communities stood out in terms of these cases? So no, again, we don’t have—it’s not reportable. So it’s just what’s happening when we start back up in school.”

Now, impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that can cause blisters and yellowish crusts on the skin.

It spreads through direct contact or by sharing personal items like towels, clothing and bedding.

And while it’s highly contagious, health officials say it’s also treatable.

Health Minister Dr. Michael Darville is urging parents to pay close attention to any unusual sores or blisters on their children’s skin and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Dr. Michael Darville – Minister of Health and Wellness

“Early treatment helps children recover faster, get them back into school quicker, and reduces the risk of spread.”