It's a fungal infection, not a worm: Symptoms, causes, risks and prevention of ringworm

Symptoms of ringworm: This infection can spread to any body part, especially if untreated. In severe cases, ringworm can cause permanent skin damage, including scarring and discolouration (Image: Canva)

Ringworm, or dermatophytosis, appears as a circular, red, scaly rash with clear or less affected skin in the center, giving it a ring-like appearance. Despite its name, ringworm isn’t caused by a worm, but by a group of fungi known as dermatophytes. These fungi thrive on keratin, a protein found in your skin, hair, and nails.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ringworm is a prevalent fungal nail infection, known as onychomycosis. It can result in nails changing colour, thickening, and becoming brittle. While these infections are more frequent in toenails, fingernails can also be affected. Fungal nail infections can spread to the skin of the foot, causing additional issues.

It presents a variety of symptoms, depending on the affected area, including itchy, red, circular rashes with clear centers and raised, and scaly borders. Other symptoms include cracking, peeling, or scaling skin, especially on the feet or hands, and brittle or discolored nails. The fungi responsible thrive in warm, moist environments and can spread through direct contact with an infected person or animal, or by touching contaminated objects or surfaces, such as locker rooms, swimming pools, and communal showers.

Risks of ringworm:

Scratching itchy areas can break the skin, leading to secondary bacterial infections. The infection can also spread to other body parts, especially if untreated. In severe cases, ringworm can cause permanent skin damage, including scarring and discolouration. Additionally, visible ringworm infections can lead to social discomfort and embarrassment, affecting mental health.

In order to avoid the occurrence of ringworm, consider these 6 preventative measures:

Hygiene: Maintain good personal hygiene by regularly washing your hands, showering daily, and keeping your skin clean and dry. Pay special attention to drying areas prone to moisture, such as between the toes and in skin folds.

Do not share personal items: Avoid sharing clothing, towels, hairbrushes, or sports equipment. Fungi can survive on these surfaces and easily spread to others.

Cleanliness: Keep common areas clean and disinfected, especially in places like gyms, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Use antifungal sprays or wipes on communal surfaces.

Pet care: Regularly check pets for signs of ringworm, such as patches of missing fur or scaly skin. If your pet shows symptoms, seek veterinary care promptly to prevent transmission to humans.

Proper footwear: Wear breathable, moisture-wicking socks and change them daily. Use flip-flops or shower shoes in communal showers and locker rooms to reduce the risk of infection.

Skin protection: When engaging in activities that involve close contact with others or potential exposure to contaminated surfaces, wear protective clothing and promptly clean and treat any cuts or abrasions.