Fomites that can spread or maintain dermatophytes in an environment:
(1) shoes
(2) shared razor, combs or hair brush
(3) contaminated laundry
(4) hats and headgear
Challenges to control of dermatophytes:
(1) The fungal spores (conidiospores) of dermatophytes are resistant to heat and other environmental factors. Very high heat is required to destroy them. They can persist some time in the environment.
(2) Some infections require long-term systemic therapy to completely eradicate the infection.
(3) Infections may be subclinical or appear innocuous.
Control of tinea infections in a population:
(1) Monitoring people for signs of a tinea infection and treating cases identified.
(2) Improving personal hygiene.
(3) Not sharing personal items or athletic gear.
(4) Handling contaminated laundry carefully.
(5) Cleaning shared areas and items (showers, gym equipment, etc) with agents with antifungal activity.
(6) Treating high risk personal items with antifungal agents such as terbinafine.
