is a contagious fungus infection that can affect the scalp, the body (particularly the groin), the feet (athlete's foot), and the nails. Ringworm has nothing to do with worms, the name is derived from the characteristic red ring that appears on an infected person's skin. Ringworm is difficult to prevent. The fungus is very common, and it is contagious even before symptoms appear.

People can become infected with ringworm by -
• Direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or pet.
• Contact with objects or surfaces that an infected person or pet has touched*
• Contact with infected soil - This rarely occurs.

Prevention
• Avoid contact with infected persons and pets.
• Do not share personal items.
• Keep common areas clean.

Causes:
Ringworm is caused by several different fungus organisms that all belong to a group called "dermatophytes." Different dermatophytes affect different parts of the body and cause the various types of ringworm -

• Ringworm of the scalp - found in humans and animals. Usually begins as a small pimple that becomes larger, leaving scaly patches of temporary baldness. Infected hairs become brittle and break off easily. Yellowish crusty areas sometimes develop.

• Ringworm of the body - found in humans, animals, and soil. Generally shows up as a flat, round patch anywhere on the skin except for the scalp and feet. The groin is a common area of infection (groin ringworm). As the rash gradually expands, its center clears to produce a ring. More than one patch might appear, and the patches can overlap. The area is sometimes itchy.

• Ringworm of the foot (athlete's foot) - lives only in humans - appears as a scaling or cracking of the skin, especially between the toes.

• Ringworm of the nails - lives only in humans - causes the affected nails to become thicker, discolored, and brittle, or to become chalky and disintegrate.

Note:
Scalp ringworm usually appears 10 to 14 days after contact, and ringworm of the skin 4 to 10 days after contact.

Who is at risk?
Anyone can get ringworm. Athletes and children with young pets are at increased risk for ringworm of the body. Inadequate treatment can result in prolonged period of infection.

The information offered in this web site is not intended for self-diagnosis or as a substitute for consultation with a medical practitioner. Unless otherwise indicated, the information offered has not been evaluated by the FDA or Health Canada.

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