Tinea fungal infection (ringworm)
The advice outlined below will help to stop fungal infections from spreading.
The fungi that cause tinea infections can survive on items such as furniture, hairbrushes, clothing and towels, and can be spread through contact with these items.
Therefore, if someone in your household has a fungal infection, you should:
Its important that other household members check themselves for signs of infection and get treatment if necessary.
If you suspect that your pet is the source of the infection, take them to your vet for treatment. Patches of missing fur is a sign that an animal has ringworm. Always wash your hands after touching a pet with the infection.
If someone in your family has a fungal infection, there is no need for them to stay off work or school. However, treatment should be started as soon as possible. Good personal hygiene should also be followed to stop it spreading to other children.
Wearing something on your feet in gym and swimming pool changing rooms will reduce your chances of getting athletes foot.
Find out how to treat fungal infections.
Ringworm is a common and highly infectious skin infection that causes a ring-like red rash on the skin. The condition is medically known as "tinea".
Ringworm often looks like a round, red or silvery patch of skin that may be scaly and itchy.
Ringworm is a skin infection caused by a fungus. Fungi are plant-like organisms that feed on living tissue, including human skin.
Ringworm is usually easy to diagnose from its appearance and location.
Ringworm is easily treated using antifungal creams, tablets and shampoo.
If you or someone in your family has ringworm, follow the advice below to prevent the infection spreading.