February 8, 2008

Dear Parent/Guardian,

This letter is to inform you of a recent increase in the number of reported cases of ringworm in the school. All identified cases have been referred for treatment. Ringworm is contagious and can be passed from one person to another. Please review the information in this letter and contact the school or your child’s physician with any suspected cases.

The symptoms of ringworm include:

·Itchy, red, raised, scaly patches that may blister and ooze. The patches often have sharply-defined edges. They are often redder around the outside with normal skin tone in the center. This may create the appearance of a ring. Your skin may also appear unusually dark or light.

·When your scalp or beard is infected, you will have bald patches.

·If nails are infected, they become discolored, thick, and even crumble.

Your doctor will diagnose ringworm primarily based on the appearance of the skin. If tests are needed, the fungus may appear florescent when your skin is examined with a blue light (called a Wood’s lamp) in a dark room. A more definitive diagnosis can be made by scraping the affected area of skin and examining the cells under a microscope.

Treatment: ·Ringworm usually responds well to self-care within 4 weeks without having to see a doctor.

·Keep your skin clean and dry.

·Apply over-the-counter antifungal or drying powders, lotions, or creams. Those that contain miconazole, clotrimazole, or similar ingredients are often effective.

·Wash sheets and nightclothes every day while infected.

A severe or persistent infection may require treatment by a doctor. Antifungal pills may be given and may be necessary if your hair is infected. Prescription antifungal skin medications, such as ketoconazole, are stronger than over-the-counter products and may be needed. Antibiotics may also be needed to treat related bacterial infections. Infected pets also should be treated.

Outlook (Prognosis) Skin medication is usually successful at treating Ringworm within 4 weeks. If your ringworm infection is severe or resistant (meaning that it does not respond well to self-care), it will usually respond quickly to antifungal pills.

Possible complications: ·Spread of ringworm to other areas

·Bacterial skin infections

·Contact dermatitis or other skin disorders

·Side effects from medications

Call your doctor right away if you have any signs of a bacterial infection, which can result from scratching. These signs include swelling, warmth to the touch, sudden worsening in redness of the patches, red streaking, pus, discharge, and fever.

To prevent ringworm ·Keep your skin and feet clean and dry.

·Shampoo regularly, especially after haircuts.

·Do not share clothing, towels, hairbrushes, combs, headgear, or other personal care items. Such items should be thoroughly cleaned and dried after use.

·Wear sandals or shoes at gyms, lockers, and pools.

Sincerely,

Pleasant Plains Nursing Staff