Sores, Rashes and Scratches! Does my kid have ringworm?

• Are you worried over scaly patches of reddened skin or rash on your toddler’s scalp or torso?

• Do such eruptions or rashes in toddlers form a circular pattern as they begin to spread, with a healing centre and ever-expanding lesions?

If yes, then you should probably get your children checked for a contagious fungal skin infection called ringworm. Without being painful or dangerous, this condition can be irritatingly itchy—and highly contagious.

The infection mostly spreads in the following ways:

• Contact with an infected person or animal

• It can also be picked from infected articles of clothing, and sharing combs, towels, etc.

• Excessive sweating presents perfect conditions for the responsible fungi to thrive and increases the chances of infection

Therefore showers, swimming pools, and locker rooms are best visited by your toddlers with their own things and it’s better for them not to go barefoot.

Despite being notorious for spreading very quickly, ringworm infections can be easily contained. Here are some effective treatments and precautions:

• Most infections or rashes in toddlers clear up with regular applications of OTC fungal medications like naftifine, griseofulvin, and tinactin. Shampoos containing selenium sulfide are used for scalp ringworm.

• Check for open lesions and let the children wear loose, cotton clothing so that they do not sweat excessively.

• Two or three wet dressing can loosen scales and reduce inflammation.

• Ensure children do not have wet skin, especially around the toes, fingers, neck, and groin.

• Have your toddlers wear sandals in locker rooms and pool areas.

• Set aside the daily use items of the infected children from the rest of the family members.

• Checks pets for ringworm infections, and get adequate treatments if necessary.

It takes around three to four weeks to get rid of the infection. Continue medications for one to two weeks after lesions disappear. Ensure that anything the child has come in contact with is sterilized in boiling water.

Disclaimer: The above information is commonsense reflection drawn from general experience. If you are looking for expert medical advice, please consult your doctor.