Ringworm Infections

Why Monsoon is a Fitting Season for Ringworm Infections?

High humidity and high heat along with perpetual damp weather prevalent during the monsoon season are the prime factors for all kinds of fungal skin infections. Amongst the various types seen occurring during this time, ringworm infection can be difficult to prevent since it can happen to anyone and is very contagious.

About Ringworm Infection:

Although the skin condition prevalent during monsoon is referred to as a ringworm infection in common parlance, in reality, the infection is caused by a fungus and not a worm. Ringworm infection is also known as tinea, dermatophyte infection or dermatophytosis. The lesions that appear on the skin look similar to ring-like worms, hence the name. Once the fungal infection has taken its root, the patches will appear red on someone who is light-complexioned or brown-grey on those who are dusky or have a darker complexion. The infection can spread to body parts such as feet, scalp, hands, nails, beard, and groin.

Transmission Methods:

1. Human to human

2. Object to human

3. Soil to human

4. Animal to human

What does a ringworm look like?

It usually starts as a pink scaly patch that then spreads out into a ring. The ring (which is not necessarily perfectly round) usually spreads wider with time. It can sometimes be itchy, but most of the time doesn't cause any discomfort.

There are other rashes that can have a ringlike shape, so it's always important to check in with your doctor, especially if the ring isn't scaly. But most ringlike rashes are tinea.

Can you prevent ringworm?

1. Keep skin clean and dry.

2. Change clothes (particularly socks and underwear) regularly.

3. Wash your hands regularly (this helps prevent all sorts of infections).

4. If your child plays contact sports, make sure they shower after practice, keep their uniform and gear clean, and don't share gear with other players.