Ringworm has nothing to do with worms.  It is a rash caused by a fungus you can catch from a dog or cat or from another person with ringworm.  It causes ring-shaped scaly sores with raised edges.  These sores spread quickly from one part of the body to another. If they spread to the scalp, they can cause the hair to fall out and bald spots with sores  to develop.

To help clear up ringworm:

• Tinactin is a cream or ointment that doctors often recommend to treat ringworm.  This can be purchased without a prescription.  Use it on the sores until two weeks after they disappear.
• The patient should be rechecked if the sores do not clear or become worse.

To prevent ringworm:

• Avoid contact with infected household pets or persons with ringworm.
• Treat infected pets and recheck often.
• Avoid sharing clothing.
• Wash hands often.