Article: There are some things that may increase your risk of a fungal infection, like sharing clothing or personal care products (brushes/combs) with an infected person. But, some people are also more likely to get an infection, based on risk factors. Individuals at risk include:  People who have depressed immune systems from medications, steroids, other infections or illnesses  People taking long-term antibiotics or immunosuppressant drugs People or babies who are incontinent or unable to hold their urine (this creates a moist genital environment) People who perspire heavily Individuals who work or spend time in an environment where they come in contact with people who are at high risk, such as nurses, school teachers, hospitalized patients, students and coaches. Parts of your skin that are moist are more at risk for fungal infections since the fungus needs moisture to thrive. These parts include the areas between your toes, under the breast tissue, in the genital region (including the vaginal area), and between folds of skin. Since fungal infections are contagious, you can get them from exposure to skin cells that have the infection. Try to reduce your exposure to public areas where other people with fungal infections may have been. If you use public locker rooms, showers, or pools, wear flip flops. You shouldn't ever share towels or combs in the locker room either. Never touch other people's infections or share shoes. Fungi live in warm, moist areas, like between the toes or in the groin. By keeping your skin clean and dry you reduce the potential for infection. There are several things you can do to keep dry.  Change your socks once daily or twice daily if you sweat a lot. Let your bath towels air dry completely before using them a second time.  Clean and dry any skinfold areas such as under the breast or under the stomach. Apply a drying or medicated powder to the skin folds when you are exercising or are going to be in a hot environment. You should also alternate your shoes so they can dry completely between wearings, especially if they get sweaty. Also, wash your athletic supporter after each use. You're more likely to get a fungal infection if you have a depressed immune system. To improve your immune system, take a daily vitamin supplement and consider taking a probiotic. Try to eat a balanced diet high in healthy fats and reduce your carbohydrate intake. You should also stay hydrated by drinking water. Your urine should be very light yellow in color. Your immune system may also benefit from 8 hours of sleep a night. Your immune system may not be in the best shape, even if you don't have a medical condition or are taking medications that might depress it. This makes it important to strengthen your immune system. If you already have a fungal infection, prevent it from spreading to more parts of your body or to your family members. Other family members should be examined and treated, if infection is suspected. Since fungal infections are contagious, take the following precautions to prevent spreading the infection:  Avoid scratching your infection. Wash your hands frequently and keep them dry. Use flip flops in the shower if you have athlete's foot. Wash all towels in warm, soapy water and dry in the dryer. Use a clean towel every time your shower or clean up. Clean your bathroom sink, tub, and floor well after using. Wear clean, dry clothes every day and avoid sharing clothes or socks. Treat all infected pets. Children and adults may want to use medicated shampoo 2 to 3 times a week for 6 weeks to prevent tinea capitis (itching/ringworm of the scalp). Soak combs and brushes for 1 hour a day in a mixture of half bleach and half water for 3 days if you have tinea capitis. Don't share combs, brushes, hats, pillows, helmets, or towels with other people.

What is a summary?
Learn who is at risk of getting a fungal infection. Recognize what areas of your skin are at risk of a fungal infection. Take care in public places. Keep your skin clean and dry. Boost your immune system. Prevent current infections from spreading.