Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection caused by common mold-like parasites that live on the cells in the outer layer of your skin. It can be spread in the following ways: Human to human. Ringworm often spreads by direct, skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.
What is the main cause of ringworm?
Ringworm is caused by a type of fungus that eats keratin. These are called dermatophytes. Dermatophytes attack the skin, scalp, hair, and nails because those are the only parts of the body with enough keratin to attract them.
How do you get ringworm in the first place?
You can catch ringworm by:
- Having direct, skin-to-skin contact with affected areas of an infected person's body.
- Touching items that have the fungi on them, such as clothing, combs, pool surfaces, and shower floors.
- Playing with pets.
