Ringworm
COMMUNICABLE DISEASES
What is Ringworm?
• Ringworm is a fungal infection that grows on the
skin.
• It can occur anywhere on the body.
• The most common sites are on the scalp, around
the nails of the fingers, on the trunk of the body,
in the groin or on the feet.
• Other names for Ringworm are “athlete’s foot”
and “jock itch.”
What signs and symptoms can you
have?
• Ringworm begins as a small reddish area. This
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area can gradually get bigger. As it gets bigger it
may look like a circle (ring).
The edges of the circle (ring) may be scaly,
crusted or blistered.
The central area clears and loses its hair.
Itchiness is common.
The time from first contact to first symptom of
Ringworm is unknown.
How is Ringworm spread?
• Ringworm is spread by direct skin to skin
contact or by touching objects that have the
fungus on them (e.g. towels, pool areas, gym
mats, floors).
• A person also can get it from being in contact
with animals such as cats, dogs, cattle and horses
that have Ringworm.
• Moist and tight fitting clothing can be a factor.
How do you treat Ringworm?
• Follow your doctor's advice on how to use the
medication:
− clean the area with soap and water
− remove scabs and crusts
− apply medication.
• Wash towels and clothing in hot water.
• Keep area dry; cotton clothing is recommended.
• People may be given oral medication.
How can you help prevent the
spread of Ringworm?
• Avoid sharing hair care and personal items such
as combs, brushes, hats, face cloths and towels.
• Notify child’s day care, school or babysitter.
Children should not attend day care, babysitter
or school until they have started treatment
prescribed by a doctor.
• People with symptoms should avoid public
activities (e.g. swimming pools, gyms, spas)
where Ringworm is more likely to be spread.
• Good personal hygiene is the best protection
against the spread of this disease. This includes:
− washing hands frequently
− use alcohol hand rub when soap and water are
not available and hands are not visibly soiled.
− keep hands away from nose and mouth
− dry feet well between the toes.
To report a communicable disease contact
Population and Public Health Services at
(306) 766-7790.
For general information regarding a
communicable disease contact the Provincial
HealthLine at the toll-free number shown below.
• If you think you may have Ringworm see a
doctor.
• Medication will be given and should be applied
to the infected area.
CEAC 5003
Octpber 2012
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