Skin Infections: Information for Athletes and Families

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Skin infections can be passed between athletes by:

• Direct skin-to-skin contact
• Sharing sports equipment, clothes, and towels

The three most important skin infections are:

• Staphylococcus aureus “Staph”
  Caused by: bacteria
  Typically: one or more painful sores, with pus surrounded by redness, sometimes associated with fever
  
  
• Herpes
  Caused by: virus, the same virus that causes cold sores in the mouth
  Typically: one or more painful blisters  with clear fluid surrounded by redness
  
  
• Tinea “Ringworm”
  Caused by: fungus
  Typically: itchy, dry, red, circular patches

Skin infections can lead to:

• Lost playing time
• Scarring, sometimes on face
• Wounds or rashes that keep coming back
• Rarely, serious life-threatening infections if not treated quickly

Prevent skin infections:

Wash hands:

• Clean hands often with soap and water. Use alcohol hand rub if soap is not available and hands do not look dirty.

Shower:

• Shower on site immediately after every practice and game. Use soap and warm water. Do not share towels.

Cover wounds:

• Cover all breaks in skin with a water proof bandage. Change the bandage if it gets wet.

Wash clothes:

• Wash clothes and towels after every practice and game. Use detergent and dry thoroughly.

Get it checked out. Don’t wait.

• Report any skin problems to your athletic trainer, school nurse, coach, or health care provider
• Tell your health care provider you participate in competitive sports
• Check with league rules if you have questions about participation