Ringworm

Symptoms

One lump grows on the skin usually in areas where equipment has been in contact with the horse. It grows in size and then bursts, forming a round, hard scab. This becomes larger and then more lesions can be found spreading from the first, forming in the same way. The lesions may be sore and itchy and younger horses as well as very old or ill animals are more likely to be affected.

Cause

A highly contagious fungus skin disease of humans, horses, farm and companion animals. Infection is spread by direct contact or by contact with contaminated equipment. Two types of fungus are responsible, Trichophyton and Microsporum.

Treatment

A course of griseofulvin antibiotics can be given in the feed which becomes contained in the skin helping to prevent Trichophyton from growing. Natamycin antibiotic wash should be used all over the horse to ensure old and newly forming scabs are treated. It is essential the horse is kept away from other horses and animals and people who handle the horse are careful not to contaminate other areas. Ringworm on horses may infect humans although uncommon, so personal protective equipment and hygiene needs to be considered. A veterinary surgeon will be able to give advice and treatment suitable for your situation. If left, the horse usually recovers from ringworm within 6 to 12 weeks, although the risk of infection to other humans and animals needs to be considered during this time. Once the horse has recovered from ringworm they are left with some immunity against the disease which is quite long lasting.

Please remember this information is provided as a guide only and professional advice should be sought before any diagnosis or treatment is applied.