Personal Contact
Ringworm is caused by a fungus rather than an actual worm and is easily transmitted through personal contact. According to the Mayo Clinic, types of ringworm such as athlete's foot (Tinea pedis) and scalp ringworm (Tinea capitis) spread through direct contact with an infected person, which is why the fungus spreads so readily amongst young children and athletes.
Indirect Contact
Ringworm can be transmitted as well as through surfaces touched by an infected person. The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology states that common use objects such as floors, pool decks, combs, towels and bedding can propagate the spread of ringworm. It is imperative that sanitizing be performed when an outbreak occurs to prevent further spread of the disease; toddlers and preschoolers often spread ringworm by playing closely together and sharing toys.
Animals and Soil
Ringworm can also be contracted from an infected animal, typically by petting or grooming the animal in question. While most prevalent in cats, ringworm can also be transmitted by dogs, horses, goats, rabbits, pigs and ferrets, as well as other less common animals. The fungus can also live in soil and, in rare cases, has been contracted through soil exposure.
