This protocol applies to adults aged 18 years and over with erysipelas, no penicillin allergy, and infection not near the eyes or nose.
First-line treatment with flucloxacillin is expected to produce symptom improvement within 2 to 3 days. When that goal is not met, escalation to an alternative approach is indicated. Full resolution at 5 to 7 days is not expected from first-line treatment alone.
Where flucloxacillin has not achieved the expected response, alternative antibiotic options exist for severe infection. The appropriate choice may be informed by microbiological results and specialist advice. The complete regimen — including which options apply, the route, and duration — is available in the full protocol.
Symptoms are expected to start to improve within 2 to 3 days.