Ringworm is mainly spread through contact with an infected person or objects. The main reasons that lead to this are as follows:
1. Spread through contact
It can be spread through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. It can spread quickly among people who engage in sports.
2. Lack of personal hygiene
Wearing wet clothes and not washing and cleaning sweaty bodies properly can lead to fungal growth. Fungus grows quickly in humid and hot weather.
3. Sharing personal items
The infection can easily be transmitted to others by sharing towels, combs, clothes, and bed sheets used by a person with ringworm.
4. From pets
If pets such as cats and dogs have ringworm, this infection can also be spread to humans by petting them. It is essential to wash your hands thoroughly after touching animals.
5. Soil-borne infection
In rare cases, ringworm can also be contracted through direct contact with soil containing the fungus (for example, while working in the fields).
6. Use in public spaces
Walking barefoot in public swimming pools, locker rooms, and gyms can lead to athlete’s foot.
Precautions to take to prevent ringworm:
Clothing: Wear loose, breathable cotton clothing.
Cleaning: Dry your body thoroughly after bathing and keep it dry.
Do not share: Do not use other people’s towels or clothes.
Treatment: Use anti-fungal creams or medications exactly as directed by your doctor. Stopping the medication halfway can cause the infection to come back.