From the Guidelines
Yes, ringworm is contagious and can spread through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or animal, or by touching contaminated items. Ringworm (tinea) is a fungal infection caused by dermatophyte fungi that feed on keratin in the skin, hair, and nails, creating the characteristic ring-shaped, red, itchy rash [ 1 ]. The infection can be treated with antifungal medications such as clotrimazole, miconazole, or terbinafine applied topically 1-2 times daily for 2-4 weeks. For more severe or widespread infections, oral antifungals like fluconazole or terbinafine may be prescribed.
Prevention and Treatment
To prevent spreading ringworm, it is essential to:
- Avoid sharing personal items
- Wash hands thoroughly after touching the affected area
- Keep the area clean and dry
- Continue treatment for the full recommended duration even if symptoms improve As noted in a study published in Pediatrics [ 1 ], avoiding skin-to-skin contact with people known to have lesions and not sharing towels and other fomites can help prevent the spread of ringworm. The infection remains contagious until treatment is complete and the rash has resolved.
From the Research
Contagiousness of Ringworm
- Ringworm, also known as tinea corporis, is a fungal infection that can be contagious 2
- The infection can spread through direct contact with an infected person or animal, or by touching contaminated objects 2
- The contagiousness of ringworm is not explicitly stated in the provided studies, but it is implied that the infection can spread through contact with infected individuals or contaminated objects
Transmission and Prevention
- Ringworm can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person, animal, or contaminated object 2
- Prevention measures include avoiding direct contact with infected individuals or animals, and avoiding sharing personal items such as towels or clothing 2
- Keeping the infected area clean and dry can also help prevent the spread of the infection
Treatment and Management
- The standard treatment for ringworm is topical antifungal medication, but systemic antifungal treatment may be necessary for more severe or widespread infections 2
- Studies have shown that oral antifungal medications such as griseofulvin, terbinafine, and itraconazole can be effective in treating ringworm, but their effectiveness can vary depending on the specific infection and individual patient 3, 4, 5