Ringworm Prevention

What to know

  • Some ways to help prevent ringworm include keeping skin clean and dry and changing socks and underwear daily.
  • Athletes can prevent ringworm by cleaning gear, wearing sandals in locker rooms/showers, and showering after exercise.
  • Bring pets to the vet if they have a rash and avoid contact.
A cat and dog are in the background and a man is washing his hands

Overview

Ringworm is very common and spreads easily between people and from pets to people. The fungus that causes ringworm can get under finger and toenails and cause infections. Fortunately, there are many simple ways to help prevent ringworm.

To help prevent ringworm, avoid contact with infected people and pets. Keep skin clean and dry, and change socks and underwear daily. Always wear sandals in locker rooms and showers and shower after exercising.

Everyday prevention tips

Anyone can get ringworm and it can easily spread around schools and households.

These simple habits help prevent ringworm:

  • Avoid skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact, with infected people.
  • Keep your skin clean and dry.
  • Change your socks and underwear at least once a day.
  • Clip your fingernails and toenails short and keep them clean.
  • Avoid contact with infected pets
  • Wear shoes that allow air to circulate freely around your feet.
  • Wear shoes or sandals in areas like locker rooms or public showers.
  • Don't share clothing, towels, sheets, or other personal items.
how to prevent ringworm
Protect Yourself from Ringworm
Help protect yourself and others from ringworm.
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Using disinfectants

Many common disinfectants can kill the fungus that causes ringworm. These include diluted chlorine bleach (1/4 cups per gallon water) or strong detergents. Never mix cleaning products.

Prevention tips for athletes

Participating in sports can increase your risk for ringworm. Think of the terms "jock itch" and "athletes foot." Athletes can take these steps to prevent ringworm:

  • Take a shower right after practice, matches, or games.
  • Keep sports gear, like helmets, knee pads, and uniforms clean.
  • Do not share gear with other players.
  • Wear shoes or sandals in locker rooms and public showers.
a water bottle, comb, gym bag, shoes
Keep all of your athletic accessories clean and do not share with teammates.

Prevention tips for pet owners

Ringworm can also spread from pets to people. If your pet has ringworm, you can help protect yourself by taking these steps:

  • Take your pet to the veterinarian right away for treatment.
    • bring any other pets to get checked if applicable.
  • Wear gloves and long sleeves if you are handling a pet with ringworm.
  • Wash your hands with soap and running water after contact with your pet.
  • Vacuum the areas of the home that the pet commonly visits.
  • Disinfect surfaces and bedding as appropriate

Protect others

People with weakened immune systems have a higher risk for ringworm. They are also more likely to have severe infections. If you are infected, be extra careful to avoid contact with people at risk. Family or friends can also help by being responsible for pet care.

Schools and daycares

Ringworm sometimes causes outbreaks in schools and daycare centers. Teach your child about ringworm. Tell them not to share items like clothing, hairbrushes, and hats with other people.

If your child develops ringworm symptoms, take them to the doctors . Inform the school or teacher so they can help prevent an outbreak. Ask if your child can still attend school or after school activities.

If you are concerned about an outbreak, contact your local health department.

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Content Source:
National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases (NCEZID)