Friday, January 17, 2025

Preventing Lymphatic Filariasis




Key points

Check to see if lymphatic filariasis is spread in the region or country you will be visiting before travel.
Avoiding mosquito bites is the best way to prevent lymphatic filariasis.

Prevention steps and strategies

The best way to prevent lymphatic filariasis is to avoid mosquito bites.

Steps to prevent mosquito bites

Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents with one of the active ingredients:

  • DEET (Insect repellents that contain DEET offer the best protection against mosquito bites.)
  • Picaridin (known as KBR 3023 and icaridin outside the US)
  • IR3535
  • Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE)
  • Para-menthane-diol (PMD)
  • 2-undecanon
  • Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants and socks.
  • Use 0.5% permethrin spray to treat clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents) or buy permethrin-treated clothing and gear.
  • Do not use permethrin products directly on skin.
  • Keep windows and doors closed or covered with screens to keep mosquitoes out.
  • Repair broken screening on windows, doors, porches, and patios.
  • Sleep in a well-screened or air-conditioned room, or sleep under a permethrin-treated bed net.
If you are traveling
  • Before you travel, learn about the health risks and precautions recommended for your destination.
  • Sleep under insecticide-treated nets or in rooms with the windows closed.
There is no vaccine or drug to prevent onchocerciasis infection.

Lymphatic filariasis is considered a neglected tropical disease, or NTD. There is a global campaign to eliminate lymphatic filariasis as a public health threat. The campaign focuses on interrupting transmission by controlling mosquitoes and giving medicine that kills the microscopic worms to entire affected communities. For those already affected by the disease, the global campaign aims at preventing morbidity and reducing disability by providing essential care. Successful campaigns to eliminate lymphatic filariasis have taken place in some countries.

Website: International Conference on Infectious Diseases

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Saturday, January 11, 2025

Clinical Overview of CMV and Congenital CMV




Key points

  • For most people, cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is not a serious health problem.
  • Diagnose, treat, and monitor children with congenital CMV to help improve their health outcomes.
  • Perform CMV testing, evaluation, and treatment per routine institutional protocols.
Types


CMV is a member of the herpesvirus family, which includes:
  • Herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2
  • Varicella-zoster virus
  • Epstein-Barr virus
These viruses share a characteristic ability to establish lifelong latency. Once a person becomes infected, the virus remains latent and resides in cells without causing detectable damage or illness.

CMV may reactivate occasionally. Reactivation of CMV infection rarely causes disease unless the person’s immune system is suppressed due to therapeutic drugs or disease.

Who is at risk

For most people, CMV infection is not a serious health problem. However, certain groups are at high risk for serious complications from CMV infection:
  • Infants infected in utero (congenital CMV infection)
  • Very low birth weight and premature infants
  • People with compromised immune systems, such as from organ and bone marrow transplants, and people infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
The risk of CMV complications to the fetus is greatest if a primary infection occurs during the first trimester.

How it spreads

CMV is spread through:
  • Contact with infectious body fluids (urine, saliva, blood, tears, semen, and breast milk)
  • Sexual contact
  • Transplanted organs and blood transfusions
  • Contact with the mother's genital secretions during delivery
Although the virus is not highly contagious, it has been shown to spread among household members and young children in daycare centers.

CMV infects people of all ages. In the United States; nearly one in three children are infected with CMV by age five. Over half of adults have been infected with CMV by age 40, most with no signs or symptoms.

CMV is transmitted by direct contact with infectious body fluids, such as urine, saliva, blood, tears, semen, and breast milk. CMV can be transmitted sexually and through transplanted organs and blood transfusions.

Prevention

CMV is common in children and can be found in especially high amounts in young children’s saliva and urine. Avoiding contact with saliva and urine from young children might reduce the risk of CMV infection. Healthcare providers should follow standard precautions.

CMV vaccines are currently in clinical trials. Learn more about how vaccines are licensed and recommended

Website: International Conference on Infectious Diseases

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Friday, January 10, 2025

Whooping cough cases triple as experts warn of new health threat




A concerning health trend has emerged as whooping cough cases surge dramatically across the nation, with reported cases more than tripling compared to previous years. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports 10,865 cases in 2024, a stark contrast to the 2,918 cases recorded during the same period in 2023. This sudden increase has caught the attention of health officials and medical experts nationwide.

Understanding whooping cough

Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, presents as a highly contagious bacterial infection that can affect people of all ages. The condition’s distinctive name comes from the characteristic high-pitched “whoop” sound patients make when gasping for air after intense coughing episodes. These coughing fits can be so severe that they often lead to vomiting and extreme fatigue, making the condition particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations.

The post-pandemic effect

Dr. Thomas Russo, a leading expert and chief of infectious disease at the University at Buffalo, attributes this significant increase to what he terms the “post-COVID effect.” During the pandemic, reduced social interaction led to fewer infections across the board, including whooping cough. This period of limited exposure has potentially weakened population immunity, making people more susceptible as social interactions return to normal levels. The current surge represents a return to pre-pandemic patterns, though at an accelerated rate that concerns health officials.
Comprehensive vaccination approach

The CDC has established clear vaccination guidelines to combat whooping cough effectively. Children under six receive the DTaP vaccine as part of their regular immunization schedule, while individuals eleven and older receive the Tdap vaccine. These vaccinations begin in early infancy and continue through adulthood, with specific timing designed to provide optimal protection during the most vulnerable periods of life.

Protection during pregnancy

Pregnant women require special consideration regarding whooping cough vaccination. Medical professionals strongly recommend vaccination between weeks 27 and 36 of pregnancy, regardless of previous vaccination status. This timing allows mothers to pass protective antibodies to their unborn children, providing crucial early-life immunity that helps protect infants during their most vulnerable period before they can receive their own vaccinations.
Understanding vaccine effectiveness

The whooping cough vaccine typically provides protection for approximately ten years, though effectiveness can vary among individuals. Regular boosters throughout life ensure continued protection against this highly contagious disease. Healthcare providers can help determine the appropriate timing for booster shots based on individual health history and risk factors.
Early symptom recognition

Recognizing whooping cough symptoms early leads to better outcomes through prompt treatment. The infection typically begins with cold-like symptoms before progressing to severe coughing fits that can last several minutes. The characteristic “whooping” sound occurs as patients struggle to inhale after these exhausting episodes. Early medical intervention can help manage symptoms and prevent spread to others.
The role of community protection

Strong community immunity through widespread vaccination helps prevent whooping cough outbreaks. When communities maintain high vaccination rates, they create protection for vulnerable individuals who cannot receive vaccines. This collective approach to disease prevention becomes increasingly important as case numbers rise.
Moving forward

As we navigate this surge in whooping cou
gh cases, healthcare providers emphasize the importance of staying current with vaccinations. Anyone uncertain about their vaccination status should consult their healthcare provider to ensure proper protection. Through vigilance and proper preventive measures, communities can work together to control this concerning increase in whooping cough cases.

The current situation serves as a reminder that even as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, other infectious diseases require our attention and proactive prevention efforts. Maintaining regular medical check-ups and staying informed about vaccination recommendations helps protect not only individuals but entire communities from preventable diseases like whooping cough.

Website: International Conference on Infectious Diseases

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Thursday, January 9, 2025

Rubella




Key facts
  • Rubella is a contagious viral infection transmitted by airborne droplets that occurs most often in children and young adults.
  • Rubella is the leading vaccine-preventable cause of birth defects, accounting for an estimated 100 000 infants born with congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) each year worldwide.
  • Rubella virus infection during pregnancy may result in miscarriage, fetal death or CRS. The most severe damage occurs early in pregnancy, especially in the first trimester.
  • Even though a safe and cost-effective vaccine is available, in 2022, there were an estimated 17 865 cases of rubella in 78 countries.
Overview

Rubella is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus. It spreads easily when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Most children and adults who get rubella have a mild fever and rash.
When a woman is infected with the rubella virus early in pregnancy, she has a 90% chance of passing the virus on to her fetus. Rubella in pregnancy, especially during the first trimester, can result in miscarriage, fetal death, stillbirth, or infants with congenital malformations, known as congenital rubella syndrome (CRS).
Being vaccinated is the best way to prevent getting sick with rubella or spreading it to other people. The vaccine is safe and helps your body fight off the virus.
There were an estimated 17 865 cases of rubella in 78 countries in 2022, despite the availability of a safe and cost-effective vaccine.

The Measles & Rubella Partnership (M&RP), previously the Measles & Rubella Initiative, has been helping deliver measles and rubella vaccines since 2000 to children worldwide, contributing to saving an estimated 57 million lives and substantially reducing birth defects due to congenital rubella infections.

Symptoms

In children, the disease is usually mild, with symptoms including a rash, low fever (<39°C), nausea and mild conjunctivitis. The rash, which occurs in 50–80% of cases, lasts 1–3 days and usually starts on the face and neck before progressing down the body. Swollen lymph glands behind the ears and in the neck are the most characteristic clinical feature. Infected adults, more commonly women, may develop arthritis and painful joints that usually last from 3–10 days.

Once a person is infected, the virus spreads throughout the body in about 5–7 days. Symptoms usually appear 2 to 3 weeks after exposure. The most infectious period is usually 1–5 days after the appearance of the rash.
When a woman is infected with the rubella virus early in pregnancy, she has a 90% chance of passing the virus on to her fetus. This can cause the death of the fetus, or it may cause CRS. Infants with CRS may excrete the virus for a year or more.
Congenital rubella syndrome
Children with CRS can suffer hearing impairments, eye and heart defects and other lifelong disabilities, including autism, diabetes mellitus and thyroid dysfunction – many of which require costly therapy, surgeries and other expensive care.

The highest risk of CRS is in countries where women of childbearing age do not have immunity to the disease (either through vaccination or from having had rubella). Before the introduction of the vaccine, up to 4 babies in every 1000 live births were born with CRS.

Vaccination

The rubella vaccine is a live attenuated strain, and a single dose gives more than 95% long-lasting immunity, which is similar to that induced by natural infection.

Rubella vaccines are available either in monovalent formulation (a vaccine directed at only one pathogen) or more commonly in combinations with other vaccines such as with vaccines against measles (MR), measles and mumps (MMR), or measles, mumps and varicella (MMRV).

Adverse reactions following vaccination are generally mild. They may include pain and redness at the injection site, low-grade fever, rash and muscle aches. Mass immunization campaigns in the Region of the Americas involving more than 250 million adolescents and adults did not identify any serious adverse reactions associated with the vaccine.

WHO response

WHO recommends that all countries that have not yet introduced rubella vaccine should consider doing so using existing, well-established measles immunization programmes. To-date, four WHO regions have established goals to eliminate this preventable cause of birth defects. In 2015, the WHO Region of the Americas became the first in the world to be declared free of endemic transmission of rubella.

The number of countries using rubella vaccines in their national programme continues to steadily increase. As of January 2024, 175 out of 194 countries had introduced rubella vaccines and global coverage was estimated at 69%. Reported rubella cases declined 97%, from 670 894 cases in 102 countries in 2000 to 17 865 cases in 78 countries in 2022. CRS rates are highest in the WHO African and South-East Asian regions where vaccination coverage is lowest.

Website: International Conference on Infectious Diseases

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Wednesday, January 8, 2025

Syphilis




Key facts
  • Most infections are asymptomatic or unrecognized.
  • WHO estimates that 8 million adults between 15 and 49 years old acquired syphilis in 2022.
  • Syphilis in pregnancy, when not treated, treated late or treated with the incorrect antibiotic, results in 50−80% of cases with adverse birth outcomes.
  • Key populations such as gay men and other men who have sex with men are disproportionately affected.
Overview

Syphilis is a preventable and curable bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI). If untreated, it can cause serious health issues.

Many people with syphilis do not have symptoms or do not notice them.

Syphilis is transmitted during oral, vaginal and anal sex, in pregnancy and through blood transfusion. Syphilis in pregnancy may lead to stillbirth, newborn death and babies born with syphilis (congenital syphilis).

Correct and consistent use of condoms during sex can prevent syphilis.

Rapid tests can provide results in a few minutes, which allows treatment initiation on the same clinic visit.

Symptoms

Many people with syphilis do not notice any symptoms. They can also go unnoticed by healthcare providers. Untreated, syphilis lasts many years. Syphilis has several stages.

Primary syphilis (first stage):
  • usually lasts around 21 days
  • a round, painless, usually hard sore (chancre) appears on the genitals, anus or elsewhere
  • the chancre may not be noticed and will heal in 3–10 days
  • progresses to the second stage if untreated.

Secondary syphilis:
  • includes a non-itchy rash, usually on the palms and soles of the feet
  • white or grey lesions appear in warm and moist areas, such as the labia or anus, at the site of the chancre
  • symptoms will go away without treatment.

Latent syphilis:
  • often has no symptoms
  • progresses to the third and final stage of syphilis (tertiary) after years if untreated
  • tertiary syphilis can lead to brain and cardiovascular diseases, among other conditions.

Babies born with syphilis can experience:rashes
  • inflammation in the organs
  • anaemia
  • bone and joint problems
  • neurological conditions including blindness, deafness, meningitis
  • developmental delays
  • seizures.
Some of these symptoms may only be noticed later in life.

Diagnosis

Syphilis diagnosis is based on the person’s clinical and sexual history, physical examination, laboratory testing and sometimes radiology, as symptoms are not common or noticeable.

Syphilis is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. Laboratory tests for syphilis include direct detection of T. pallidum through a microscope or indirect methods such as blood tests. Rapid tests are also available and can provide results in minutes, facilitating immediate treatment initiation.

Identifying asymptomatic infection through laboratory or rapid tests and providing adequate treatment of positive cases will prevent further transmission and complications, as well as adverse pregnancy outcomes, including congenital syphilis.

Treatment

Syphilis is treatable and curable. People who suspect they may have syphilis should speak to their healthcare provider.

The early stage of syphilis is treated with a benzathine penicillin (BPG) injection. BPG is the first line treatment for syphilis and the only WHO-recommended treatment for pregnant women with syphilis. As second line treatment, doctors may also use doxycycline, ceftriaxone or azithromycin, which are antibiotic medicines.

BPG is also used to treat later stages of syphilis, but more doses are required. Doses are usually given once per week for three weeks, including when it is not possible to identify the stage of infection.

BPG can prevent syphilis from being passed from a mother to baby. Babies born with syphilis (congenital syphilis), or babies whose mother had untreated syphilis, need to be treated right away to avoid serious health problems.

Transmission

Syphilis is transmitted during oral, anal or vaginal sex through contact with infectious lesions, and also during pregnancy through the placenta. Transmission typically occurs during early stages of the disease, i.e., up to 2 years after infection.

Prevention

Syphilis is a preventable disease.

Using condoms consistently and correctly is the best way to prevent syphilis and many other STIs. Syphilis can also spread through contact with other areas of the body not covered by a condom, including genitals, anus and mouth.

People at higher risk of infection should be tested at least once a year.

Pregnant women should be tested for syphilis at the first prenatal care visit and treated right away if the test result is positive. Congenital syphilis can only be prevented by diagnosing and treating the mother with penicillin.

People diagnosed with syphilis should notify their sexual partners to prevent new infections.

WHO response

WHO has a global initiative for the elimination of congenital syphilis in association with the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and viral hepatitis B.

WHO has also developed treatment guidelines for syphilis and another guideline for testing and treatment of syphilis specific for pregnancy. These include the recommendation for the use of the dual HIV/syphilis test which is affordable, effective and cost-effective in some settings and context.

Additionally, WHO supports country adoption of ethical, voluntary and evidence-based strategies to notify sexual partners of people diagnosed with syphilis, HIV and other STIs.

WHO also facilitates country access to quality diagnostic tests and is working toward preventing global shortages of penicillin.

Website: International Conference on Infectious Diseases

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Tuesday, January 7, 2025

What is HMPV virus currently spreading in China?




Five years after the Covid-19 pandemic, China is now grappling with a surge in cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus.

Several media reports and social media posts suggest that the virus is spreading rapidly across the country. Some claim that hospitals and crematoriums are overwhelmed by the influx of patients.

Videos circulating online show crowded hospitals, with users reporting multiple viruses, including Influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Covid-19, as the culprits behind the surge in respiratory illnesses.

Reports indicate that the spike in HMPV cases has led to a notable increase in sudden deaths, particularly affecting individuals aged 40 to 80.

“China is facing a surge in multiple viruses, including Influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Covid-19, overwhelming hospitals and crematoriums. Children’s hospitals are particularly strained by rising pneumonia and ‘white lung’ cases,” stated a post on X by the SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) handle.

Data from the Chinese CDC in late December revealed a fluctuating but increasing positive rate of HMPV cases among children aged 14 and below, according to China’s state broadcaster CCTV.

What Is HMPV?

Discovered in 2001, HMPV belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, which also includes Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). However, serological studies suggest that the virus has been present in humans for over 60 years and is globally distributed.

HMPV can cause both upper and lower respiratory diseases in people of all ages, with young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems being most vulnerable.

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), common symptoms include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath.

Li Tongzeng, a chief doctor at Beijing You’an Hospital, explained that HMPV spreads through respiratory droplets, direct contact such as handshakes, or touching contaminated objects. The virus has an incubation period of three to five days.

Preventive measures include wearing masks, frequent hand washing, and boosting immunity.

Experts caution against the use of antiviral drugs to treat HMPV. In an interview with the state-backed National Business Daily, a respiratory expert in Shanghai warned against blindly using antiviral medications, as no vaccine exists for HMPV, and its symptoms often resemble those of a common cold.

In 2023, HMPV cases were reported in the Netherlands, Britain, Finland, Australia, Canada, the US, and China.

Website: International Conference on Infectious Diseases

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Monday, January 6, 2025

Ringworm





What is Ringworm?

Ringworm is a fungal infection that affects the skin, hair, or nails. It causes red, circular rashes with raised edges.
What are the Types of Ringworms?

Some common ringworm types include:
  • Athlete's Foot: This affects mostly males, causing itching, scaling, and blisters on the feet due to sweating and tight footwear.
  • Jock Itch: This is also more prevalent in males. It presents as red, itchy patches in the groin area during warm weather, rarely affecting females.
  • Scalp Ringworm: This is highly contagious, especially in children. Symptoms include red rash, itching, and hair loss on the scalp.
  • Nail infection: Affects nails, causing thickening and yellowing, more common in adolescents and adults.
  • Body ringworm: This is characterised by circular, raised lesions with itching, affecting all ages but more prevalent in children in warmer climates.

How Do I Know If I Have Ringworm?

If you are wondering if you have ringworm, look for a red, scaly patch or bump on your skin. It may appear as one or multiple rings with raised, bumpy, scaly edges and a clear centre. Remember, not everyone with ringworm will have the classic ring pattern.

Who Gets Ringworm?

While ringworm can affect anyone, individuals with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of contracting the infection.

What are the Symptoms of Ringworm?

Ringworm can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, fingernails, and toenails, with symptoms such as itchiness, ring-shaped rashes, redness, scaling, and hair loss. Ringworm symptoms differ by location:
  • Feet: Red, swollen, itchy skin between toes, potential blistering on the sole and heel
  • Scalp: Scaly, itchy, circular bald patches, more prevalent in children
  • Groin: Scaly, itchy, red spots in skin folds of the thigh
  • Beard: Scaly, itchy, red spots on the cheeks, chin, and upper neck, possibly crusted or pus-filled, with hair loss
What Causes Ringworm?

Ringworm causes is primarily by a fungus known as dermatophytes, which prefer warm and moist environments. These fungi can spread when individuals come into direct contact with infected people, animals, or objects, causing ringworm.

Is Ringworm Contagious?

Ringworm is contagious and spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact. Transmission occurs through various means:
  • Human-to-human: Typically spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact.
  • Animal-to-human: Contracted by touching infected animals, common in petting or grooming dogs, cats, and cows.
  • Object-to-human: Can spread via contact with objects recently touched by infected individuals or animals, such as clothing, towels, and combs.
  • Soil-to-human: Rare transmission occurs through contact with heavily infected soil, usually requiring prolonged exposure.

Will Ringworm Go Away on Its Own?

Yes, ringworm can resolve without treatment, but it may take several weeks to months. However, opting for no ringworm treatment or jock itch can lead to prolonged itching and discomfort.

How is Ringworm Diagnosed?

There are various stages for ringworm diagnosis. A dermatologist can typically diagnose ringworm by visually examining the affected area. They may also inspect other parts of your body, as ringworm can manifest concurrently with conditions like athlete's foot. Additionally, your dermatologist might take a sample of the infected skin, hair, or nail for laboratory analysis. Examining the sample under a microscope allows the doctor to identify the presence of fungi responsible for ringworm.

What is the Best Cure for Ringworm?

The most effective ringworm treatment depends on the location and severity of the infection. However, common treatments include:
  • Over-the-counter antifungal creams, lotions, or powders for skin infections like athlete's foot and jock itch
  • Prescription oral antifungal medications for severe or scalp infections
  • Keeping the affected area clean and dry
  • Avoid sharing personal items like towels or clothing
  • Practising good hygiene and regularly washing hands
  • Treating pets for ringworm if they are carriers.

What’s the Treatment for Ringworm?

Ringworm treatment varies depending on the diagnosis and the severity of the condition-;
Oral Medication
Non-prescription options include clotrimazole, miconazole, terbinafine, and ketoconazole.
Prescription options include griseofulvin, terbinafine, itraconazole, and fluconazole.
Antifungal Creams and Powders
  • Clotrimazole (Lotrimin, Mycelex)
  • Miconazole (Monistat, Micatin)
  • Terbinafine (Lamisil AT)
  • Tolnaftate (Tinactin)
  • Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Home Remedies for Ringworm
While over-the-counter and prescription treatments are typically the most effective options for treating ringworm, some home remedies may provide relief. Here are some simple home remedies for ringworm:
  • Try using diluted tea tree oil directly on the affected area
  • Use diluted apple cider vinegar to alleviate symptoms and fight fungal growth
  • Apply crushed garlic or garlic oil to the skin to combat the infection
  • Coconut oil can be applied to soothe itching and aid in healing
  • Apply fresh aloe vera gel to reduce itching and inflammation
  • Create a paste with turmeric powder and water, then apply it to the affected area
  • Soak the affected area in warm salt water to reduce itching and inflammation
What are the Risk Factors for Ringworm?

Depending upon the ringworm stage, the following factors that increase the risk of ringworm:
  • Warm climate
  • Close contact with infected individuals or animals
  • Sharing personal items
  • Wearing tight clothing
  • Weak immune system
  • Obesity
  • Diabetes

Can You Prevent Ringworm?

Ringworm prevention is possible by adhering to the following practices-;
  • Maintain cleanliness and dryness of your skin
  • Choose footwear that promotes air circulation
  • Avoid walking barefoot in communal areas such as locker rooms or public showers
  • Keep fingernails and toenails trimmed short and hygienic
What are the Complications of Ringworm?

If left unaddressed, ringworm can extend to different body regions, increasing the risk of transmission to others. Additional complications may include:
  • Hair loss and scarring
  • Pigmentation changes, especially noticeable on darker skin tones like under the armpits
  • Nail abnormalities
  • Secondary infections due to bacteria penetrating broken skin
  • Majocchi’s granuloma is an uncommon condition where the fungus penetrates deeper skin layers.
Can Ringworm Come Back?

Yes, ringworm can return because the fungi that cause it can stay on the skin for a long time. After treatment, it may come back, so you might need to treat it again.

When to See a Doctor?

Seek medical attention if the rash spreads quickly. Also, if the over-the-counter remedies prove ineffective, or if the rash appears on sensitive areas like the face, scalp, or genitals.

How Does Ringworm Affect Pregnancy?

Ringworm fungus does not affect pregnancy, but you should consult with your healthcare provider before using over-the-counter antifungal creams or powders.

Conclusion

Ringworm is a common fungal infection that can be effectively treated with proper medical intervention. While it may not pose a direct threat to pregnancy, seeking guidance from healthcare providers before using over-the-counter remedies is recommended. At Metropolis Labs, we understand the importance of accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plans. Our state-of-the-art facilities and experienced healthcare professionals are dedicated to providing comprehensive testing and expert guidance for managing conditions like ringworm. Trust Metropolis Labs for reliable diagnostic solutions and personalized care.

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