what causes impetigo in adults

Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that can affect both children and adults. It is caused by two types of bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. The bacteria can infect the skin through a break in the skin from a cut, insect bite, or rash. Adults may be at higher risk of impetigo if they live in a tropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters, have a scabies infection, or have other health conditions such as diabetes or weakened immune systems. Other risk factors for impetigo include close contact with someone who has impetigo, participating in sports that involve skin-to-skin contact, and warm, humid weather. Impetigo can also occur without any skin breakage and may develop after another skin condition. Stress does not cause impetigo, but it can weaken the immune system, making it easier for bacteria to infect the body.