Causes of Ringworm

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Fungal spores are all around us, in the soil, on people, and on animals. The fungi that cause ringworm generally enter the body through a break in the skin. If you have a scratch or cut, or if you have broken skin because of a condition such as eczema, this may get infected.

Ringworm is also more likely to thrive in warm damp areas. Places where you sweat a lot, such as in the groin and under the arms, are frequently affected.

Animals can have ringworm and can pass it on to humans. Pets such as dogs, cats and hamsters are among the most common animals that get ringworm. Children who come into close contact with their pets; farmers; and people that work with animals, are more at risk.

Ringworm can also be caught through person-to-person contact, sharing combs or unwashed clothes, and from surfaces inside showers or beside swimming pools.

Fungal groin infection and athleteâ€™s foot are often found in the same person. The spores from one area can spread to other parts of the body.