Ringworm
–
A fungal infection that may affect the body, feet, or scalp
Signs and symptoms –

Skin o Red, circular patches with raised edges and central clearing o Cracking and peeling of skin between toes o Genital area also known as “jock itch”

Scalp o Patchy areas of dandruff-like scaling with or without hair loss o Redness(begins as small slightly raised spot) and scaling of scalp with broken hairs or patches of hair loss
Incubation/Contagious periods –

Usually 10-14 days.

Contagious while lesions present until under treatment.
Mode of transmission
–

Direct person to person contact by sharing combs, brushes, towels, clothing, or bedding

Fungus infection spread by contact with infected humans, animals (dogs, cats, etc.), or indirectly by contact with contaminated surfaces or objects

Infectious as long as the lesions are not treated
Control measures –

Early treatment of infected people.

Examination of siblings and other household contacts,

Do not share combs, brushes, or hair ribbons.

Cover skin lesions.
Responsibilities –

School o Ringworm of the scalp

Report possible infection to school designated inspector
(SDI). If SDI concurs with suspicion of ringworm of the scalp, call parent/guardian for immediate pick up. A copy of ringworm letter will be given to the parent/guardian to inform them of the need for medical evaluation and possible treatment.
 Isolate student in classroom until parent/guardian pick up.
 Review hand washing technique and clean affected items
(classroom headphones etc.)
 When student returns to school, obtain documentation from the medical provider regarding clearance to return to class.
 Log students dismissed into Communicable Condition Log.
 A letter may be sent to classroom parents/guardian to inform of possible presence of ringworm.
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o Ringworm of the body
 Report possible infection to SDI. If SDI concurs with suspicion of ringworm, send ringworm letter to parent/guardian informing them of needed treatment.
 Does not need to be excluded from school if lesion is covered.
 Review hand washing technique and clean affected items.

Upon return to school next day, obtain note from parent/guardian regarding treatment implemented (if no note brought in refer to school nurse).

Log students in Communicable Condition Log.
 May send ringworm letter to classroom parents/guardians.

Parent/Guardian o Ringworm of the scalp
 Pick up child immediately and seek necessary medical evaluation.
 Secure documentation from the medical provider regarding treatment plan and return to school clearance.

Complete course of medication if indicated providing school with medication consent form if treatment required during school hours.

Nurse o Education of school personnel, parent/guardian, and student about ringworm, including its mode of transmission and means of prevention. o Review Communicable Condition Log weekly providing follow up as indicated or requested.
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