Cellulitis (sel-yuh-LY-tus) is a deep bacterial infection of the skin and the area just under it. Kids with cellulitis need treatment with an antibiotic to kill the harmful germs. When the infected area is large or is not getting better on an antibiotic given by mouth, doctors recommend treatment in the hospital. Your child received intravenous (IV) antibiotics and is ready to go home and continue taking an antibiotic by mouth.

• Be sure your child takes all of the antibiotic as prescribed.
• If your child is uncomfortable, you may give:
  • acetaminophen (such as Tylenol® or a store brand)
    OR
  • ibuprofen (such as Advil®, Motrin®, or a store brand). Do not give ibuprofen to infants younger than 6 months old.
• Don't give aspirin to your child. It could lead to serious medical problems.
• Check the infected area daily for any signs that the cellulitis is getting worse, such as:
  • a growing area of redness
  • red streaks on the skin near the cellulitis
  • increased swelling
  • fluid or pus oozing from the infected area
• Make a follow-up appointment with your health care provider as directed.
• Your child can go back to normal activities now that the fever is gone and the infection is improving.

Your child has:

• a fever or chills
• trouble taking the antibiotic as prescribed

Your child:

• is taking the antibiotic but:
  • Red streaks are spreading from the infection.
  • The infected area is getting bigger.
  • Your child seems sicker.
• complains of increasing pain

What causes cellulitis? Many different types of bacteria can cause cellulitis. Cellulitis usually starts when bacteria get into a cut or scratch in the skin. Germs also can enter the skin at an insect bite, near a surgical incision, or at a piercing. The infection begins in the outer skin layers and spreads deeper, causing pain, swelling/puffiness, warmth, and redness.

Can cellulitis be prevented? Keeping cuts and scrapes clean can help prevent cellulitis. Wash the injured area well with soap and water, apply an antibiotic ointment, and cover with gauze or a bandage. Try not to touch or scratch cuts, scrapes, or insect bites.