Ringworm: A highly contagious and common fungal infection caused by mold-like parasites that live on the cells in the outer layer of your skin.

Did you know that Ringworm gets its name because of how it looks on the skin and not an actual worm?

Ringworm is common in children, appears as scaly bald patches, reddish and itchy, on the skin and scalp. More than 100 thousand cases occur per year in Nigeria.

Ringworm spreads:

• By direct skin-to-skin contact, or
• By touching a contaminated surface or object.

Risk factors:

You’re at higher risk of ringworm of the body if you:

• Live in a warm climate
• Have close contact with an infected person or animal
• Share clothing, bedding or towels with someone who has a fungal infection
• Participate in sports that feature skin-to-skin contact
• Wear tight clothing
• Have a weakened immune system

Complications:

A fungal infection rarely spreads below the surface of the skin to cause serious illness. But people with weak immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, may find it difficult to get rid of the infection.

Symptoms:

Fissures, Red Rashes, Scaly Patches, Darkening of the skin or Peeling, Hair Loss or Itchy Scalp.

Treatment: Antifungal medication (cream or tablet), which kills or prevents growth of fungi.

Prevention:

The fungus that causes ringworm is common and contagious even before symptoms appear. Help reduce your risk of ringworm by taking these steps:

Educate yourself and others.

Keep clean. Wash your hands often to avoid the spread of infection.

Don’t share personal items like clothing, towels, hairbrushes or others.

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