Ringworm, a contagious disease common in colder months, is spread via direct contact from patient to patient or by touching infected surfaces.

People and pets can infect each other but fortunately, it is much more likely that you will catch ringworm from another human rather than your pet, and studies have shown that up to 13 per cent of human ringworm infections are caused by fungus that commonly causes ringworm in cats.

Other animals that can develop ringworm include dogs, guinea pigs, cows, horses, pigs and goats with juveniles, the elderly and those whose immune function is compromised the most susceptible to the infection.

There are many different strains of ringworm and most animals affected by ringworm present with dry, patchy, scaly areas of skin and with broken hair follicles.

Diagnosis in your pet is often made based on close examination of the skin and there is a range of techniques, however, many of them alone are imperfect.

The skin can be examined under a special blue lamp, which is inexpensive and relatively time effective, but unfortunately diagnoses only around 50 per cent of ringworm cases, and thus a negative result does not rule it out.

The best technique to diagnose ringworm is sending away a sample for culture or PCR which has a fast turnaround time, and can be useful in the initial diagnosis.

Ringworm is a treatable condition in both humans and animals, often with solutions or creams for application to the area, however severe or resistant infections may require oral medications.

If you or your pet is diagnosed with ringworm, it is important the home environment is disinfected to minimise reinfection and transmission to other animal and human household members.

Strong disinfectant and removal of contaminated hair via vacuuming are the most effective ways to eradicate remaining fungal spores from the environment after treatment.

It is important to consult with your vet if your pet is suffering from any hair loss or skin disease or your doctor if you suspect ringworm on yourself.