Ways to get ringworm: what to know

Ringworm is a fungal infection, not a worm. The fungus can pass when skin touches an infected patch or when someone shares towels, clothing, bedding, hair tools, sports equipment, or other items that carry shed skin or fungal material. Contact with an infected pet can also spread it; cats and dogs may have areas of hair loss or scaly skin, but some animals show little change. Warm, damp skin and small breaks from scratching can make spread easier. A ring-shaped or expanding rash with a scaly edge may fit ringworm, although other rashes can look similar.

Avoid sharing personal items, wash clothing and bedding regularly, keep affected skin clean and dry, and wash hands after touching the area or applying treatment. Do not scratch or cover the rash with another person's towel. A clinician can confirm the diagnosis and choose a topical antifungal treatment for suitable skin infections; tablets may be needed when infection is extensive, involves hair, or does not respond to topical care. A pet with suspicious skin changes should be assessed by a veterinarian.

Arrange medical advice if the rash is spreading, painful, recurrent, affecting the scalp or nails, or not improving with appropriate care. Seek prompt assessment for pus, marked swelling, fever, or rapidly worsening redness. Do not assume every circular rash is ringworm, particularly when the appearance changes after using a steroid cream.

Ask whether the appearance needs testing, which household items should be cleaned, whether close contacts or pets need assessment, and how long treatment should continue after the skin looks clearer.