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After the triple cleaning with soap and water, a 1:10 solution of bleach should be used on surfaces that are bleachable. The surface should stay wet for a total of 10 minutes to kill the ringworm spores .
Ringworm spreads through direct contact with infected skin or fungal spores. The spores can live on fabrics, including clothing, couch cushions, bedding , and other porous surfaces. They also thrive in damp environments, such as public showers and locker rooms.
Where does ringworm live? The fungus that causes ringworm can live in humans, dogs, cats, other animals, and soil. The fungus can survive on contaminated objects for long periods of time, sometimes up to 18 months.
Use hot water and detergent when washing bedding and any infected clothes . Hot water alone can kill the fungus. As an extra precaution, add borax or bleach to your wash along with regular laundry detergent. Borax and bleach can be purchased from a grocery store, and they also kill fungal spores.
Apply a topical antifungal Most cases of ringworm can be treated at home. Over-the-counter antifungals can kill the fungus and promote healing. Effective medications include miconazole (Cruex), clotrimazole (Desenex) and terbinafine (Lamisil).
Does vinegar kill ringworm ? Apple cider vinegar is not an effective treatment for ringworm . If used topically with a covering as some people recommend, apple cider vinegar could make the infection worse.
A four-week course is common , but the time can vary. With treatment, a ringworm infection on a part of the body without hair (glabrous skin) is likely to clear up within two to four weeks of the start of treatment. More serious cases, and infections in the scalp, can require oral antifungal pills.
Can I Prevent Ringworm from Spreading ? Wash your hands after touching any part of your body with ringworm . Keep all infected areas clean and dry. Treat all areas infected. Thoroughly clean infected items. Use flip flops or waterproof shoes in public showers, pool areas and locker rooms.
Ringworm is contagious as long as lesions are present. It stops being contagious about 24-48 hours after treatment begins.
If you travel internationally, develop a rash, and think it might be ringworm , be aware that strong over-the-counter steroid creams containing combinations of antifungal and antibacterial medicines can make ringworm worse and cause other health problems.
Some examples of antifungal medications for treating ringworm on the skin include: Lotrimin cream, Cruex spray powder, Mycelex, Pedesil ( clotrimazole ) Desenex topical powder, Fungoid cream, Micatin cream, Lotrimin AF athlete’s foot spray or powder, Lotrimin AF Jock Itch spray powder ( miconazole ) Lamisil ( terbinafine )
Most mild cases of ringworm usually clear up in 2 to 4 weeks . But treatment might be needed for up to 3 months if the infection is more serious, or affects the nails or the scalp.
High heat (> 110oF) is also effective. This temperature can be attained by commercial dishwashers, some commercial steam applicators (but not necessarily home steam carpet cleaners) and clothes dryers .
The only reliable killer of the ringworm spores is a 1:10 dilution of bleach in water. Use this with care because it is a harsh mix and will stain. Sunlight will kill ringworm too. Anything that can ‘t be thrown away can be left outside to try to get rid of ringworm contamination,” suggests Dr.
Ringworm spores can survive in your carpeting or house for 18+ months.