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Date Published: 19/01/2023

ARCHIVED - Itchy business: ringworm outbreak detected in hairdressers across Spain

ARCHIVED ARTICLE -

The fungus is being spread through infected electric razors in salons in Spain

<span style='color:#780948'>ARCHIVED</span> - Itchy business: ringworm outbreak detected in hairdressers across Spain

A study compiling two year’s worth of data has noted an alarming increase in ‘scalp ringworm’, a highly-contagious fungal infection that is most common in adolescent boys. The researchers have traced the outbreak to hairdressers across Spain, most likely stemming from razors.

To date, 107 cases have been detected. Patients usually suffer from itchy cuts and abrasions around the neck and temples, according to dermatologist Dr Leonardo Bascón, who added that the lesions can sometimes be scaly and inflamed with an unpleasant discharge.

What is ringworm?

Despite its name, there are no worms involved. Ringworm of the scalp, or tinea capitis, gets its name from the circular appearance of the lesions. It usually affects children between the ages of 6 months and 12 years.

Depending on the mode of transmission of the fungus, ringworm can be broken down into three distinct types: anthropophilic, which generally cause non-inflammatory infections; zoophiles, which usually cause inflammation; and geophilic, causing moderate inflammation.

Aside from itching, scalp ringworm can also result in bald patches and fever.

What has caused the outbreak in Spain?

Dermatologists have blamed the short-back-and-sides hairstyle fashion for the increase in ringworm. Weekly haircuts, the experts explained, weakens the skin on the head and neck, especially if the hair is shaved close, and the fungus can then easily spread from infections electric razors to customers.

As Dr Bascón explained, "it is likely that the contaminated shaving material is being shared among the different clients of some hairdressers who are not taking into account the rules for disinfection of the equipment." Therefore, this study suggests that this new social trend among male adolescents would be the cause of the outbreak of cases of ringworm of the scalp in hairdressers.

Such a widespread outbreak constitutes a public health issue, but even though ringworm is easily spread, it’s also relatively simple to get rid of and can usually be cured with prescription antifungal medication.

In other news: The end is in sight for masks on public transport in Spain

Image: Mayo Clinic

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