If you’ve just noticed a red, itchy, circular rash on your skin, your first thought might be: “Is this ringworm? And how on earth did I get it?”
You’re not alone—ringworm (despite the creepy name) is a common fungal infection, not an actual worm. It can happen to anyone, but knowing how it spreads is the first step to getting rid of it for good.
What Exactly Is Ringworm?
Ringworm, also called tinea, is a skin infection caused by fungi called dermatophytes.
It can show up anywhere on your body:
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Tinea corporis – body
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Tinea pedis – athlete’s foot
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Tinea capitis – scalp
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Tinea cruris – jock itch
It spreads easily—think of it like glitter: once it’s on you, it can spread to others fast if you’re not careful.
How Do You Get Ringworm?
Here are the most common ways ringworm spreads:
1. Direct Skin-to-Skin Contact
Hugging, holding hands, or brushing against someone who has it.
Example: Kids wrestling in gym class or playing sports.
2. Touching Contaminated Objects
The fungus can live on surfaces for days.
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Shared towels, bed sheets, and clothes
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Gym equipment
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Hairbrushes and combs
3. From Pets 🐶🐱
Cats, dogs, rabbits—even guinea pigs—can carry ringworm without showing obvious signs.
Tip: If your pet has bald patches, get them checked by a vet.
4. Contact with Infected Soil
Less common, but possible if you garden barefoot or play in dirt where the fungus is present.
Who’s Most at Risk?
While anyone can get ringworm, you’re more likely to catch it if you:
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Have close contact sports (wrestling, martial arts, basketball)
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Use public showers or locker rooms
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Share personal items
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Have a weakened immune system
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Live in warm, humid climates
Symptoms to Watch For
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Red, itchy, ring-shaped rash with a slightly raised edge
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Scaling, cracking, or peeling skin
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Hair loss in the affected area (scalp infections)
It might start small but can grow if left untreated.
How to Stop Ringworm in Its Tracks
1. Start Treatment Immediately
Over-the-counter antifungal creams, lotions, or powders (like clotrimazole or terbinafine) usually work within 2–4 weeks.
2. Keep It Clean & Dry
Fungi thrive in warm, moist areas—keep your skin dry and avoid tight, sweaty clothing.
3. Avoid Spreading It
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Don’t share towels, clothes, or combs
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Wash bedding and clothing in hot water
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Vacuum pet areas regularly
4. See a Doctor If
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It’s on your scalp or nails
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It spreads quickly despite treatment
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You have recurring infections
Can You Prevent Ringworm?
Absolutely. Prevention is about hygiene and awareness:
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Wash your hands after touching pets or soil
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Wear flip-flops in public showers
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Keep sports gear clean
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Dry your feet and skin thoroughly after bathing
Final Thoughts
Ringworm isn’t dangerous, but it’s annoying, contagious, and persistent if ignored. The sooner you recognize it, the faster you can treat it—and keep it from spreading to friends, family, or pets.
Your next step:
Check your skin, treat early, and if you think your pet might be infected, visit the vet. Share this post with someone who’s asking “How do you get ringworm?”—you might save them a lot of itching.