Which type of bacterial infection is characterized by highly contagious yellow oozing crust?

The type of bacterial infection characterized by highly contagious yellow oozing crust is Impetigo. This skin condition is typically caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes and often presents as red sores or blisters that rupture and ooze a yellow fluid, forming a crust. Impetigo is particularly common among young children and in settings where close contact occurs, such as schools or playgrounds, making it highly contagious.

In contrast, folliculitis usually involves inflammation and infection of hair follicles, leading to red, pimple-like bumps rather than the oozing crust associated with impetigo. Cellulitis is a deeper skin infection that often appears as a swollen, red area of skin that may be warm to the touch and does not typically have the crusting characteristic of impetigo. Herpes simplex, on the other hand, is caused by the herpes virus and manifests as blisters or sores, but not in the form of a yellow crust that oozes.

Understanding these distinctions helps in accurately identifying and treating different types of skin infections.