Ringworm is a kind of skin infection that (unlike its name implies) is not caused by any worm but a type of fungus called Dermatophytes. These fungi are generally found in most environments such as pool areas, public showers, etc. We can also find them on our pets, and sometimes, they are already present on our skin, nails, or hair. When someone comes in contact with this fungi, they take this opportunity to stick to our skin, and when that happens, they start to eat the keratin found in the dead skin cells, and slowly, we begin to notice a red scaly patch appearing on that region, then overtime, it may look like one or more rings with raised tough scaly edges and a clear center, thus due to their ring like appearance, they are popularly known as ringworm.

Ringworms are often described with many names depending on the area they infect. If they grow in the area of the groin, upper thigh, or buttocks, it is called Jock itch. If they are found on the foot, they are described by the name Athlete’s foot, and when fungus grows anywhere else on the body, it’s known as ringworm.

Whatever the name could be, one thing is sure, and that is, they can make our skin flaky and cracky, causing it to itch, burn, or feel very uncomfortable. Not only that, but it can also develop into a bump filled with pause called Kerion, and worse, if it grows into your hair, it can make some hair fall out leaving a bald spot. This is most common in Nigeria, and is often called Lapa-Lapa.

Ringworm is a highly contagious infection. It can easily pass from one person to another through skin-to-skin contact or by sharing personal belongings like clothes, hats, combs etc. Not only that, if someone has ringworm on one part of their affected body & then touch another unaffected area, the fungus can spread there too. So it is vital to treat this infection as soon as possible.

To avoid getting ringworm in the first place, make sure to keep your skin clean and dry by bathing daily & using clean towels, try wearing clean and loose clothes, avoid sharing personal things like combs, hats, clothes, etc. and maintain a reasonable distance from anybody that has ringworm until they recover. Most mild cases of ringworm usually clear up within 2-4 weeks, but for a more serious infection, treatment might take up to three months.