Prevention of Fungal Infection

Most fungal infections can be reduced by keeping skin dry and avoiding shared items.

Keep skin dry

• Dry thoroughly after bathing, especially between toes, in the groin and under the breasts.
• Change sweaty clothes, socks and underwear promptly.
• Wear loose cotton clothing and breathable footwear.
• Rotate shoes so they can dry out, and avoid wearing damp shoes.

Avoid sharing

• Use your own towel, comb, razor, clothes and footwear.
• Wash towels and clothes in hot water and dry them in sunlight.

Protect your feet

• Wear sandals in public bathrooms, gyms and pools.
• Keep toenails short and clean.
• Do not walk barefoot on damp public floors.

Look after your health

• Keep diabetes well controlled.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Take antibiotics only when prescribed.
• Avoid unnecessary steroid creams and steroid-antifungal combination creams.

If someone at home has ringworm

• Treat early and completely.
• Do not share towels or bedding.
• Check pets, since animals can carry ringworm.
• Wash hands after touching the rash.

Children

Do not share combs or caps at school. Seek advice for scaly patches on the scalp.

Ayurvedic perspective

Ayurvedic advice on cleanliness, dry skin, light food and regular routine fits these steps. They are sensible habits but not proven alone to prevent infection.

Seek care

Recurring infection, scalp or nail involvement, or infection with diabetes or weak immunity need a doctor.

Travel and communal spaces

Carry your own towel and sandals when using hostels, gyms or public pools, and dry your feet well afterwards.