—Andre G., University of Miami, Florida
Yes, you can. Ringworm (tinea corporis) is transmissible. It is not a worm but a skin infection caused by a mold-like fungi. Ringworm can be acquired from an infected individual or a contaminated article of clothing or surface, or it can spread from another area on your own body. Happily, ringworm is usually fairly easy to diagnose and treat.
How do I know if I have it?
The first sign of ringworm is usually not a ring, but a red, itchy, round, or oval patch or bump. Over several days it spreads outward. The characteristic ringworm rash is an enlarging red or dark ring. To me, it’s like a forest fire expanding outward. The skin in the middle of the ring may be mildly red and scaly or may appear normal. The advancing edge is slightly raised (up to 5 mm) and is usually thin.
How does it spread?
- By skin-to-skin contact: This is a particular concern for wrestlers and martial artists.
- From surfaces, such as wrestling mats.
- Via skin contact with sheets or clothing that was recently in contact with lesions on an infected person.
- One type of ringworm can be acquired from dogs and cats.
What’s the treatment?
Ringworm infections are usually treated with antifungal creams applied once or twice a day. They may take up to three weeks to resolve, but they usually respond more rapidly. Complications are rare, but some individuals may have reactive hyperpigmentation (darkened skin patches) after a ringworm infection. It is also possible to get a secondary skin infection from aggressively scratching an itchy rash.
How can I avoid spreading ringworm?
- Change your towels and washcloths frequently.
- Wash all towels in warm, soapy water and then dry them.
- Wear clean clothes every day and do not share clothes.