At Multi-Clean, we receive a number of technical service inquiries on what disinfectants are appropriate to prevent the transmission of ringworm. This post will describe ringworm, who gets it, and how to disinfect to prevent the spread of ringworm.

Ringworm is NOT caused by a worm nor does it involve a worm. According to the CDC, ringworm is a skin infection caused by a fungus. The infection is a circular rash (looks like a worm) and is red and itchy. There are 40 different fungi that can cause ringworm, but the most prevalent group of fungi that cause ringworm are called Trichophyton.

Ringworm goes by other familiar names depending on the location on the body. The medical terms are “tinea” or “dermatophytosis.

Ringworm of the feet is called “Athlete’s Foot”, of the genital area is called “Jock Itch”. Ringworm can also be found on the scalp and a man’s beard.

Who Gets Ringworm
People that use public showers, people that perspire a lot, and people that work with animals can be prone to the fungi that cause ringworm. Athlete’s can be particularly prone to Ringworm and the transmission to others. Wrestlers and other sports involving close skin to skin contact can be particularly troublesome.

Is Ringworm Contagious
The fungi that cause ringworm can live on surfaces, particularly in damp areas like locker rooms and public showers. For that reason, it’s a good idea not to walk barefoot in these places.

Type of disinfectants to use in preventing the spread of ringworm.
Look for disinfectants that have a claim for a Trichophtyon fungus, most common is Trichophyton Mentagrophytes (causes athlete’s foot).
Appropriate disinfectants from Multi-Clean with Trichphyton fungus claims include Century Q, Millennium Q, E-Fecticide, and Microcide TB.

What to disinfect
How to disinfect to prevent the spread of ringworm. All surfaces, wrestling mats, athletic equipment, even sports protection equipment, especially if shared among athlete’s. Disinfect at least once a day during high usage.

A New Tool to Help Reduce the Spread of Pathogen’s including Ringworm
Electrostatic Spraying (E-Spray) is new technology in the cleaning industry that can be used to rapidly apply disinfectants to surfaces. By applying an attractive charge to the spray droplets, this special equipment insures surfaces that harbor pathogens are completely disinfected. This includes complex surfaces like weights, workout equipment, wrestling mats, and other surfaces.