Counterintuitively, Ringworm is not an actual worm infection like pinworms. Ringworm is actually the name of a highly contagious fungal infection.
It is spread by contact with an infected person or something they touched. It is a red, itchy rash that usually manifests in a circular shape, with normal-colored skin in the middle. It often becomes crusty.
It is related to athlete's foot and jock itch and is treated with the same type of over-the-counter creams such as Lotramin or Tinactin. To treat, twice a day wash the area with soap and water, pat dry, apply the cream, and cover with a bandage (to avoid spreading the infection to others). This must be done for 3-4 weeks while the infection heals. Keep the as area clean and dry as possible.
Damaged skin that becomes cracked and irritated can also develop a secondary bacterial infection, which will need to be treated.
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