Animals can also be affected by ringworm and may transmit the condition to humans. In this case, ringworm is an example of a zoonotic disease, or a disease transmitted from animals to humans. Ringworm is actually a fungus—a particularly nasty fungus because some types are zoonotic, meaning it can be passed from one species to another. It can also be contracted from contaminated objects or soil. Ringworm has no favorites and likes all types of cats, especially young cats, those that are sick and have a suppressed immune system.
Is ringworm considered zoonotic?
The three most common fungal species that may cause ringworm in dogs are Microsporum canis, Microsporum gypseum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. These three species of ringworm are zoonotic, meaning they can also infect humans.
Are fungal diseases zoonotic?
Zoonotic fungi can be naturally transmitted between animals and humans, and in some cases cause significant public health problems. A number of mycoses associated with zoonotic transmission are among the group of the most common fungal diseases, worldwide.
How is ringworm spread from animals to humans?
Animals, like people, get infected through touching an infected animal's skin or hair or by touching things that are infected with the fungus, like blankets and towels. Many different kinds of animals can transmit ringworm to people.
Can humans infect animals with ringworm?
A: Yes. Ringworm, a fungal infection of the skin, hair or nails, is zoonotic, which means it's a disease shared by humans, cats, dogs and other animals.
What is ringworm and what causes it?
The fungi that cause this infection can live on skin, surfaces, and on household items such as clothing, towels, and bedding. Ringworm goes by many names. The medical terms are “tinea” or “dermatophytosis.” Other names for ringworm are based on its location on the body – for example, ringworm on the feet is also called “athlete’s foot.”
What are the causes of zoonotic diseases?
Zoonotic diseases are caused by harmful germs like viruses, bacterial, parasites, and fungi. These germs can cause many different types of illnesses in people and animals ranging from mild to serious illness and even death. Some animals can appear healthy even when they are carrying germs that can make people sick.
Where does ringworm live?
The fungi that cause this infection can live on skin, surfaces, and on household items such as clothing, towels, and bedding. Ringworm goes by many names. The medical terms are “tinea” or “dermatophytosis.”
What is a fungal disease that looks like a ring?
Fungal Diseases. Ringworm. Ringworm is a common skin infection that is caused by a fungus. It’s called “ringworm” because it can cause a circular rash (shaped like a ring) that is usually red and itchy.
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