14 students infected with ringworm at a Petropavlovsk college: what the inspection revealed

Tengrinews.kz — In late September, students at one of the colleges in Petropavlovsk were diagnosed with a fungal skin infection commonly known as ringworm. Sanitary doctors have now completed an epidemiological investigation. Here is what specialists found and how the infection spread.
How many students were infected and how
The North Kazakhstan Region Department of Sanitary and Epidemiological Control told us that a total of 14 laboratory-confirmed cases of tinea corporis were registered at the college. Initially, eight cases had been reported.
Note: Tinea corporis is a fungal skin infection caused by dermatophytes. It is also commonly known as ringworm. The infection usually affects the skin of the chest, abdomen, back, arms or legs.
During the epidemiological investigation, specialists established that all of the infected students lived on the same floor of the dormitory. Their rooms were located close to one another, and the students had close household contact.

“Specialists also identified a probable source of infection that had been in contact with the first patient,” the department said.

The agency did not specify what exactly the source may have been.
Disinfection and fines
To prevent the infection from spreading, specialists disinfected the places where the affected students lived and studied. The students were also placed under medical observation.

“Following the investigation, department employees fined the college,” the agency’s press service said.

The North Kazakhstan Region Department of Sanitary and Epidemiological Control continues to monitor the situation.
How to protect yourself from ringworm
Sanitary doctors provided several recommendations for preventing fungal skin infections:

do not use other people’s combs, clothing, shoes, hats or bedding;avoid contact with stray cats and dogs;wash your hands with soap after contact with animals and after playing in sandboxes;shower regularly and maintain good personal hygiene;wash towels and bedding at high temperatures and iron them afterward;if a pet shows signs of illness, take it to a veterinarian.


“If any rashes appear on the skin or scalp, seek medical attention from a dermatologist promptly. The doctor will establish a diagnosis and prescribe treatment if necessary,” the statement said.