Ringworm- Scalp and Body

CAUSE:

A shallow fungal infection of the skin.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:

Small raised area spreads, leaving scaly patches for temporary baldness. Infected hairs become brittle and break off easily.

INCUBATION PERIOD:

Time from contact until development of signs and symptoms: 10-14 days (scalp), 4-10 days (body).

MODE OF TRANSMISSION:

Ringworm is transmitted by direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or by indirect contact with infected animals (dog, cat, pet mice) or by wearing infected clothing, hats, or using toilet articles (i.e., combs, brushes) of an infected person.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES:

Cleanliness of hair, scalp and body. Education about the importance of personal hygiene and the danger of acquiring infection from dogs, cats, and other animals. Frequent hand washing, including thorough drying. Fungi grow in damp areas. Using Universal/Standard Precautions is effective. Proper laundering of clothing is also important.

PERIOD OF COMMUNICABILITY:

Greatest incidence is among children from five to twelve years of age. Lasts as long as the lesions are present and viable spores persist on any contaminated articles.

IMPLICATIONS FOR SCHOOL:

Exclusion from school may be necessary. Any student with exposed and/or visible symptoms will be required to have a note from a healthcare provider. No student should be re-admitted to the classroom unless they have a note from a healthcare provider stating they are under treatment and have the area(s) covered with gauze, dressing or clothing. Lesions on the scalp may be covered by a cap.