ringworm

Everyday

A skin infection caused by a fungus (not a worm) that makes red, itchy, ring-shaped patches on the skin or scalp; it spreads by touching and is treated with cream. tree →

In the lessons

In health lessons, ringworm shows how fungal infections spread through sharing towels or touching pets, and why washing helps. Phrases: catch ringworm, ringworm cream.

Examples

• Ringworm is caused by a fungus, not a worm. tree →
• The cat had ringworm, so we washed our hands after stroking it. tree →
• Ringworm makes a red, itchy ring on the skin. tree →
• Don't share towels so ringworm doesn't spread. tree →
• The doctor gave him a cream for ringworm. tree →
• Athlete's foot is caused by a similar fungus. tree →

Note

Uncountable. Big myth: there is no worm. It is a common and treatable infection, so it is nothing to be ashamed of.