Zoonotic Disease: Ringworm and Humans
Zoonotic Diseases
Rabies, ringworm and lyme disease make up a small collection of the zoonotic diseases that can be passed from animal to human.
In this article, we’ll look specifically at ringworm; how it is spread, what it looks like and how it can be treated.
What is Ringworm?
The common name, ringworm, is somewhat misleading for many since the disease itself is not caused by a worm, but rather by one of several species of fungi; medically referred to as dermatophytosis; it is a fungal infection of the skin.
More often than not the most common environments where the infection – which takes on the appearance of a dry, red and commonly itchy patch or ‘ring’ appearance – occurs, is in households, kennels and catteries where decontamination can be difficult.
How does ringworm spread?
Most commonly, the ringworm infection spreads from animal to human when the two come into direct or indirect contact; for example, by touching infected objects that the animal has touched – these objects include anything from brushes and saddles to home furnishings.
In some cases, you needn’t come in contact with an animal in order to contract the infection; you can become infected via a ‘disease vector’. For example, a carrier such as a rodent or insect transports the infection from animal to human.
Whilst it sounds easy to become infected, it does not occur in every instance of contact; the risk factor is based on certain factors including the recipients age, immune system and skin condition to name but a few. Such factors affect whether the fungus can grow and develop into an infection, such as ringworm.
Who is at risk?
The following factors can affect who is more likely to contract ringworm from animals:
• Infants and small children – Those who have immature immune systems.
• Pregnant women – Immune systems are more susceptible and there are additional hazards to the foetus.
• Elderly – Immune systems may be impaired.
• Immunocompromised people – Those undergoing cancer therapy, HIV/AIDS patients, etc., where the strength of the immune system is lessened.
• Veterinarians, zoo/wildlife and other animal health care workers – exposed to animals.
Conclusion
The best way to avoid contracting ringworm from animals is to lead a healthy lifestyle; those with strong immune systems are much more likely to stave off the fungal infection than those without.
About the Author: Maria Bantellis is a health writer on fungal conditions such as Ringworm
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