Raising stray cats can cause the whole family to get infected with the fungus

On November 19, doctor Nguyen Tien Thanh, Vietnam Dermatology Association, said that the family, including the couple and the baby girl, all had many blisters with a diameter of more than 10 mm on the arms, legs, thighs, and chest, causing uncomfortable itching. The patient said the unusual symptoms appeared a week after her daughter brought home a stray cat and the whole family hugged and petted her. The acne spread and became more severe in the following week.

The results of fresh microscopic examination of the samples of all three people showed the presence of septate fungal hyphae – a strain of fungus that infects animals from animals to humans. Doctors diagnosed the patients with a fungal skin infection, also known as Dermatophytoisis, which can be transmitted by cuddling with stray cats.

Skin fungus is transmitted from infected animals to humans through direct contact or through objects such as blankets, mosquito nets, and clothing. The disease can also be transmitted between people, especially in group living conditions or sharing personal items. Hot and humid conditions are the ideal environment for fungi to grow strongly. When coming into contact with infected animals, such as dogs and cats that are not properly cared for and hygienic, the risk of infection is very high.

Skin fungus is not life-threatening but causes a lot of trouble. Patients often feel itchy and uncomfortable. If they scratch, the fungus can spread, making the condition worse, causing multiple infections, affecting aesthetics and quality of life.

All three family members were treated with topical and oral antifungal medications. After 10 days, the symptoms gradually improved, no new lesions appeared, and the surface was completely scaly.

Doctors recommend keeping the body clean, especially in areas infected with fungus, and avoiding using strong detergents or soaps. You should choose gentle bath products that clean the skin without causing dryness or irritation. After bathing, you need to dry your body and apply moisturizer to the damaged skin to reduce itching and enhance skin regeneration.

Clean the living environment, change bedding, curtains and items that come into contact with the skin. Do not come into close contact with strange animals or animals of unknown health status. If you have a dog or cat, you should have regular health checks, deworming, and take your pet to a veterinarian when there are signs of skin disease to prevent infection to humans.