Infectious ringworm is a contagious superficial skin infection that occurs mainly in childhood patients and is caused chiefly by Staphylococcus aureus but also, in some cases, by Streptococcus.
The infection usually starts from minor abrasions, insect bites, or a rash, such as eczema – on any part of the body where there is a break in the continuity of the skin. However, it can also occur on healthy skin.
Bacteria thrive in warm and moist conditions. Therefore, wax contamination tends to show seasonality, with a peak increase in the summer and fall months in northern climates. In hot and humid climates, it occurs year-round.
What are the causes of infected wax?
Ringworm is an infection caused by strains of Staphylococcus or Streptococcus. These bacteria can enter the body through a break in the skin, from an abrasion, an insect bite, or a rash. They invade the organism and settle in it.
The condition is contagious. You can become infected with these bacteria if you touch a person's wounds with infected wax or touch items, such as towels, clothing, or sheets, that the infected person has used.
How is infected wax treated?
Antibiotics are effective against infected wax. The type of antibiotic you receive depends on the extent and severity of the damage.
Topical antibiotic treatments are preferred if you have infected wax on just one small area of your skin.
