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 can spread to other people and to other parts of the body. Athlete's foot usually goes away after a few weeks of treatment with a medicated cream or ointment.

• To use the medicated cream or ointment:
  • Wash the area with mild soap and dry the skin (use a towel and wash it after every use in hot water or use a paper towel and throw it away).
  • Apply the cream or ointment to the area as instructed by the health care provider. The medicine needs to be used until the rash is completely gone. Do not stop the medicine early or the infection may come back.
  • Wash hands with soap and water after putting the cream or ointment on.
• To help the infection go away and prevent it from coming back:
  • Your child should not wear the same shoes every day. Each pair should dry out after use.
  • Have your child wear sandals, if possible.
  • Choose breathable socks made of moisture-wicking fabric and sneakers that allow air flow.
  • Your child should 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.
• To prevent the spread of athlete's foot, your child:
  • should not pick or scratch the rash
  • should not share socks, shoes, and towels
  • should wash their hands well and often with soap and water
  • should avoid swimming pools or walking barefoot until the athlete's foot is gone

• 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 people get athlete's foot? Athlete's foot can happen when someone touches the fungus on a surface, like a shower floor or a pool area. Sharing towels, sheets, clothing, or shoes with someone who has athlete's foot also can spread the infection.

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

What can help prevent fungal infections? Teach your child to:

• Keep their 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.