Friend's kiddo has ringworm- several questions - Children's Health Message Board

seo · 05-16-2006, 09:13 AM

Hi, just have a few quick questions on ringworm (which I know nothing about!) My friend's little boy just found out he's got it and we're trying to figure out where he got it from and if it's contageous via kid to kid. They do have cats, can kids get ringworm from cats? If so, what can be done for the cats? Also, he's going to the doctor today for it (nurse at school just called his mom) and what will they do for him? Can it be cleared by medicine?

Any input would be greatly appreciated! We don't know much about ringworm and are trying to figure out as much as we can before he goes to the doctor. There are 2 other kids in the house so we're wanting to make sure everyone is safe.

Thanks!!

rouge · 05-16-2006, 10:01 AM

My sister was a 2nd grade teacher and she got ringworm. I think it is really contagious via touching. She used a cream to get rid of it but it took awhile. He could have got it from touching someone or something with it on it. Not sure about the cat thing.

crazyasthewind · 05-16-2006, 10:40 AM

Hi Seo,

Ringworm is caused by a fungus, and not an actual worm!

like i had previously thought...before i knew about this. Where i work, there was a lady that was infected with it, and they gave her antifungal cream and an antibiotic to get rid of it. I called the HealthUnit where i live and they told me that there is no need to panic, just be careful not to touch it and if you do, wash your hands right away. It does take a while, but with the antifungal cream, it is no longer contagious after about 3 days (i think, but don't quote me on this!) You can google "ringworm" as well, i have found a whole bunch of medical sites that were good.

Hope this helps!
Take care

Dark Stranger · 05-17-2006, 09:23 AM

Yes, ringworm is very contagious. Some girls in my gym class got it from kneeling in shorts on the wrestling mats and walking around barefoot too much in the pool area. Also, people can contract ringworm from infected cats and dogs. The cats should be examined by a vet to see if they have it. While it's not a condition to lose sleep over, it's good to get it treated as soon as possible to prevent the skin from developing those unattractive patches.

sjs40 · 05-18-2006, 07:59 PM

Hi There!

3 of my kids picked up ringworm from cats 2 summers ago and it took awhile to get rid of. It was anoying at worst.

*****I was told, however, that ringworn can be fatal for animals. They do not have the immune defense that we do. You can go to your local vet to have the animal checked with a special blue light.

The cats that my kids contracted from were put down. (They were at an animal shelter)