Ringworm, Scalp (Tinea Capitis):
A parent's guide for infants and babies

There are no effective self-care measures to treat scalp ringworm.

To prevent scalp ringworm:

• Have your child avoid close contact with infected people and pets.
• Teach your children about the dangers of sharing combs, brushes, hats, and hair accessories with friends.

See your child's doctor or a dermatologist if your child has hair loss or itchy, scaly spots on the scalp.

If a close contact of your child (sibling or classmate) is diagnosed with scalp ringworm, make sure you examine your child's scalp, looking for scaly spots. If you are suspicious about an area, take the child to see a doctor for an examination.

If your child is diagnosed with scalp ringworm, have any household pets evaluated by a veterinarian to make sure that they do not also have a dermatophyte infection. If the veterinarian discovers an infection, be sure to have the animal treated.