What should you know about animal ringworm?

Despite its name, ringworm is caused by fungi rather than a worm. Cats, dogs and other animals may carry it, sometimes with bald, scaly or crusted patches and sometimes with signs that are easy to miss.

In people, ringworm often presents as an itchy, scaly rash that may expand outward and develop a more noticeable edge. It can look different depending on the body site and skin tone, so a perfectly round ring is not required. Contact with the animal's fur or skin can transmit the fungus; bedding, brushes, clothing and soft furnishings can also carry infected hairs or skin flakes.

A clinician may be able to recognise the pattern during an examination. If the appearance is unclear, they may take a gentle skin scraping or hair sample to distinguish ringworm from eczema, psoriasis or another rash.

Wash your hands after handling the animal and avoid touching or scratching the affected skin. Do not share towels, clothes, bedding, hair tools or sports equipment. Wash items that have had close contact with the animal, clean commonly touched surfaces, and vacuum loose hair. Keep the animal away from shared beds and have a veterinarian assess it; treating only the person can allow repeated exposure.

A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether a topical antifungal suits a small skin patch. Infection involving the scalp, beard, nails or a broad area may require prescription oral treatment. Avoid using a steroid cream by itself on a suspected fungal rash because it can mask the pattern and allow the infection to spread.

Arrange medical assessment if the rash is on the scalp, beard, face or nails; covers several areas; keeps spreading; returns after treatment; or does not improve with appropriate pharmacy advice. Seek prompt care for increasing pain, warmth, swelling, pus, fever or rapidly worsening redness, as these can point to an additional bacterial infection.

Earlier clinical advice is sensible for a young infant or anyone with a weakened immune system. Tell the clinician about animal contact, other affected household members, products already applied and whether a veterinarian has confirmed infection in the pet.

Ask whether the rash needs testing, which antifungal form matches its location, how to apply or take the medicine, and what change should prompt another appointment. You can also ask when close-contact activities may resume and whether other household members with skin changes should be assessed.