Ringworm: How to Care for Your Child

Kids with ringworm have one or more red, scaly patches on the skin. The patches are usually round and can be itchy. Ringworm is caused by a type of germ called a fungus. It usually goes away after a few weeks of treatment with a medicated cream or ointment.

• Wash and dry the skin at least twice a day and before using the medicated cream:

  • Wet the area.

  • Wash with a mild soap.

  • Use a clean towel to dry thoroughly. The towel should only be used on the ringworm area. Machine wash the towel in hot, soapy water after every use.

• Apply the cream or ointment to your child's ringworm as instructed by the health care provider. Do not stop the medicine early, even if the patches look better, or the ringworm may come back.

• Your child can go to school after treatment has started.

• If the ringworm is on an area that's usually shaved, stop shaving there until the ringworm is gone.

• To prevent spreading ringworm to others:

  • Help your child avoid picking at or scratching the ringworm.

  • Wash your child's and your own hands often, especially after touching the ringworm.

  • Cover the ringworm if your child plays a sport with skin-to-skin contact.

• If you have a pet and notice it has a rash or hair loss, make an appointment with the veterinarian to check the pet for ringworm.

• The ringworm does not start to get better in a week or so.

• Your child gets a rash somewhere else on the body.

• The infected skin looks redder or starts to ooze.

How do you get ringworm? Most people with ringworm get it from touching a person or animal who has it. A person can also get ringworm from a towel or brush, sports equipment, or a shower stall. Ringworm isn't caused by a worm, but the ring around the rash can look like one.

Can the fungus that causes ringworm spread to other parts of the body? Yes. The type of fungus that causes ringworm is called tinea and it can spread to the foot, groin, or scalp. A tinea infection on the foot is called athlete's foot and in the groin area is called jock itch. Tinea also can cause a scalp infection. Some people call all of these infections "ringworm."

How is ringworm diagnosed? Health care providers usually can diagnose ringworm by looking at it. Sometimes a bit of the scaly skin is sent to the lab to look for the fungus.

How can I prevent my child from getting ringworm again? Teach your child to:

• Keep skin clean and dry.

• Wash well with soap and shampoo after any sport that involves skin-to-skin contact.

• Wear loose clothing and change socks and underwear at least once a day.

• Avoid sharing clothing, sports equipment, towels, brushes, and other personal items.

• Wear flip flops when walking in a shower stall, locker room, or pool area.