What is Ringworm?
[[Image:Yeartinfection.JPG|thumb|250px|Ringworm on a human leg]] '''Ringworm''' is a contagious disease that causes itching of [[skin]]. It occurs in small circular red or white patches. Ringworm is one of those diseases that are caused by [[fungi]]. It chiefly affects the scalp and feet. Red spots often form on skin called tinea. Ringworm is in fact not caused by a worm. Fungi can survive extremely well in warm and humid areas, like locker rooms or showers. This common and contagious skin infection gets its name from the red itchy circle/ring that forms on the surface of the skin. Types of ringworm: * Athlete’s foot: also called tinea pedis. This fungal infection causes an itchy burning skin rash between the toes and on the soles of feet. Skin may also become scaly ad cracked. It can also cause a bad odour. * Scalp ringworm: also called tinea capitis. This causes red itchy bald spots on your scalp. If they are left untreated, the bald spots can grow bigger and become permanent. * Hands: Tinea manuum: Signs of ringworm on your hands include dry, caked palms and ring-like patches. * Beard: Tinea barbae: Ringworm appears on your neck, chin and cheeks. The patches may become crusted over or filled with pus. '''<u>Symptoms and causes?</u>''' Signs typically appear between 4 - 14 days after your skin comes in contact with the fungi that causes ringworm. The type of fungis that causes ringworm naturally lives on your skin, hair and nails. However when their environment gets hot and damp, the fungi start growing uncontrollably. The fungi are called dermatophytes. Besides spreading from person to person, ringworm can come from pets or other animals (like cats, dogs and rodents). It can spread easily when people are in close physical contact. It can also be passed on objects like combs, brushes, hats, towels and clothing. Minor skin injuries (such as scratches), too much exposure to heat and humidity, and some health conditions (like diabetes, obesity, or immune system problems) can make a person more likely to ge