Diseases caused by fungi (ringworm)

Question 1

What causes ringworm?

Answer 1

Ringworm is caused by a fungus and not a worm.

Question 2

How do fungal spores spread?

Answer 2

Fungal spores can live and spread on the skin of both humans and animals.

Question 3

How is ringworm often spread?

Answer 3

Ringworm is often spread by contact with affected pets in a home.

Question 4

What are the symptoms of ringworm?

Answer 4

Symptoms include itchy sores (often circular-shaped) on the skin.

Question 5

What are the management and treatment options for ringworm?

Answer 5

Management and treatment include:
- treatment of the skin with antifungal ointments
- treatment of pet animals in the home
- avoid sharing clothes with an infected person.