Zoonotic Diseases – Ringworm

Today’s topic is Ringworm! Wrongly named, this fungus affects the skin and is not a worm at all. These fungi feed upon dead cells of skin and hair, and in people it will cause a round red lesion that appears like a ring of scales on the outer edges and normal recovering skin in the center.

The ring appearance is mostly seen on humans; with animals it can look like dry or grey skin, it may even be a scaly patch or mimic any other skin lesion.

Where would my pet pick up this infection?

The spores this fungi produce are very hardy and can live in the environment for years. All it takes is skin contact with a spore to become infected; however the skin must be irritated to contract this infection as it can not infect intact healthy skin. Freshly shaved, scraped, or scratched skin is unfortunately very vulnerable.

Infected pets are constantly dropping spore covered hairs as they break off and float into our environment. Some pets may be carriers and never show any sign of skin irritation themselves, but they can still infect others. Ringworm patients who are getting treatment often fit in this category, towards the end stages of their care their skin or fur is still dropping spores, but the visible signs of infection will have cleared up. Spores that remain in the environment can be washed away.

Who would be most likely to pick up this infection?

Younger children and pets are at higher risk to contract this infection; as well as anyone with suppressed or lowered Immune systems.

When diagnosing your pet there are several different factors taken into consideration, and many different types of conditions that can affect your pets skin. If you suspect your pet has a skin condition, contact us at the Eastern Passage Village Veterinary Hospital 465-1213.