Ringworm is a skin infection that is caused by a fungus. A child with ringworm has a rash that is usually itchy and flaky. The rash may be shaped like a ring with a raised edge. Ringworm may affect the body, feet or scalp.
If the scalp is infected, ringworm can cause a bald area. If the feet are infected, they are usually itchy and the skin between the toes may crack. Ringworm of the feet is commonly called, “athlete’s foot”.
Ringworm can be cured with medicines taken by mouth or with creams that are spread on the infected area.
When someone touches or scratches the rash, the fungus sticks to the fingers or gets under the fingernails. The fungus then spreads when that person touches someone else.
Ringworm of the scalp can be spread if combs, hair brushes, barrettes, bike helmets, headphones or hats are shared.
Print this page as featured in the guide book, Sneezes & Diseases: A Resource Book for Caregivers & Parents