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 isn't caused by a worm, but the ring around the rash can look like one). It can spread to other people and to other parts of the body. Ringworm usually goes away after a few weeks of treatment with a medicated cream or ointment.

• To use the medicated cream or ointment:
  • Wash the area with mild soap and dry the skin (use a towel and wash it after every use in hot water, or use a paper towel and throw it away).
  • Apply the cream or ointment to your child's ringworm as instructed by the health care provider. The medicine needs to be used until the patches are completely gone. Do not stop the medicine early or the ringworm may come back.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water after putting the cream or ointment on your child.
• To prevent ringworm from spreading to other people:
  • Cover the ringworm with clothing or an adhesive bandage.
  • Help your child avoid picking at or scratching the ringworm.
  • Have your child wash their hands well and often with soap and water.
• Your child can go to school after treatment starts. They should cover the ringworm with clothing or an adhesive bandage.
• If the ringworm is on an area that's usually shaved, have your child stop shaving there until the ringworm is gone.
• If a pet has a rash or hair loss, take it to the veterinarian so they can check the animal 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 or on the scalp.
• 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 also can get ringworm from using a towel or hairbrush, sports equipment, or a shower stall.

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

How can I prevent my child from getting ringworm again? Ringworm can happen on the body or on the head. To prevent all forms of ringworm, 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, hats, sports equipment, helmets, towels, hairbrushes, and other personal items.
• Wear flip-flops when walking in a shower stall, locker room, or pool area.