Ringworm, or dermatophytosis, is caused by a fungus (not a worm). Contact with the hair or skin cells of an infected animal can cause a superficial lesion on the skin that can look red, flakey or crusty and cause hair breakage or loss in the affected area. The spores of the fungus, which case the lesions, can survive in the environment for long periods of time. Animals with ringworm have skin lesions similar to those in people, but cats can be carriers of the fungus and not show any obvious signs. Funguses carried by animals do not cause fungal diseases that are easily spread between people such as tinea capitus or athletes foot.

Prevention

• Treat animals with lesions. Avoid contacted with the hair or skin cells of infected animals.
• Use gloves or wash hands well after handling infected animals or cats.