Athlete's Foot: How to Care for Your Child

Kids with athlete's foot have a red, itchy rash on one or both feet. It is caused by a type of germ called a fungus. It usually goes away after a few weeks of treatment with a medicated cream.

• Wash and dry the skin at least twice a day and before using the medicated cream:

  • Wet the area.

  • Wash with a mild soap.

  • Use a clean towel to dry thoroughly, especially between the toes. The towel should only be used on the infected foot or feet. Machine wash the towel in hot, soapy water after every use.

• Use the medicated cream as instructed by the health care provider. Do not stop the treatment early, even if the rash seems better, or athlete's foot may come back.

• Help your child pay special attention to his or her footwear:

  • Wear different shoes each day to allow each pair to dry out after use.

  • Wear sandals if possible.

  • Choose breathable socks made of moisture-wicking fabric and sneakers that allow air flow.

  • Change socks at least twice a day.

  • Machine wash socks in hot, soapy water after each use.

  • If possible, throw away the shoes that were worn before treatment started. Or ask your health care provider how to disinfect them.

• Avoid scratching the infected skin because this can spread the infection to other parts of the body.

• To prevent the spread of athlete's foot to other people, have your child:

  • Avoid swimming pools or walking barefoot.

  • Avoid sharing socks, shoes, and towels.

• The skin does not start to get better in a week or so.

• Your child gets a rash somewhere else on the body.

• The infected skin looks redder or starts to ooze.

How do you get athlete's foot? A fungus that can live on different surfaces causes athlete's foot. People can get athlete's foot by touching the fungus when it's on:

• another person

• a part of their own body

• a surface, like a shower floor or a pool area

Can the fungus that causes athlete's foot spread to other parts of the body? Yes. The type of fungus that causes athlete's foot is called tinea and it can spread to the body, scalp, or groin. A tinea infection on the body or scalp is called ringworm and in the groin area is called jock itch.

How can I prevent my child from getting another fungal infection? Teach your child to:

• Keep skin clean and dry.

• Wash well with soap and shampoo after any sport that involves skin-to-skin contact.

• Wear loose clothing and change socks and underwear at least once a day.

• Avoid sharing clothing, sports equipment, towels, brushes, and other personal items.

• Wear flip flops when walking in a shower stall, locker room, or pool area.