The whole family contracted a fungal skin infection from the cat.

Two weeks after adopting a stray cat, a family in Hanoi developed several skin lesions and were diagnosed by doctors with a fungal skin infection transmitted from animals to humans.

Dr. Thanh examines a patient's family suffering from a fungal skin infection transmitted through animals - Photo: Provided by the doctor.

The whole family got a fungal infection from the cat.

Recently, Dr. Nguyen Tien Thanh, a member of the Vietnam Dermatology Association, received a case from the HPA family (Hanoi) who came for examination with multiple skin lesions.

The skin develops distinct patches of blisters with scaling, raised edges, and gradually spreads, scattered across both arms, lower legs, and thighs, sometimes on the chest or other areas of the body; these lesions are itchy and uncomfortable.

"The skin lesions on all three individuals are typical of fungal skin infections (dermatophytosis). This is a very common condition in hot and humid climates like ours," Dr. Thanh said.

According to Ms. A., two weeks before the symptoms appeared, her daughter brought home a stray cat, a cat that was often close to people and frequently hugged or carried by children.

After a week, the whole family started experiencing itching and developing skin lesions, which spread further. The family added that they had never owned a cat before.

Microscopic examination of the lesions in Ms. A's family revealed the presence of septate hyphae. This is a type of fungus that can be transmitted from animals to humans.

Dr. Tien Thanh explained that fungal skin infections can be transmitted from infected animals to humans through direct contact or through items such as blankets, curtains, and clothing. They can also spread from person to person, especially in communal living conditions or when sharing personal items.

The hot and humid conditions in Vietnam create an ideal environment for various types of fungi to thrive. Contact with infected animals, especially dogs and cats that are not properly cared for, carries a very high risk of infection.

Uncontrolled fungal skin infections can spread.

According to Dr. Thanh, fungal skin infections are not life-threatening, but they can cause a lot of inconvenience. Patients often experience itching and discomfort, and the lesions can spread if not treated properly.

If left untreated, the condition can spread to many areas of the body, causing itching and scratching that can lead to eczema or secondary infections. This not only affects aesthetics but also reduces the patient's quality of life.

In addition, when infected with fungus, patients often experience itching and discomfort. If scratched, the fungus can spread, making the condition worse. Therefore, it is necessary to keep the body clean, especially in the infected area, and avoid using shower gels or soaps with strong detergents.

Choose gentle bath products that cleanse the skin without drying or irritating it. After bathing, pat your body dry and apply moisturizer to affected areas to reduce itching and promote skin regeneration.

Fungal skin infections can spread quickly, so avoid scratching the infected area. Keep your fingernails short to avoid further injury.

It's important to keep your living environment clean, change and wash bedding, curtains, and other items that come into contact with your skin. If you have dogs or cats, you should have them checked regularly, dewormed, and especially take them to the veterinarian if you notice any signs of skin disease to prevent infection from spreading to humans.

Dr. Thanh advises that to prevent fungal skin infections from spreading from pets, pet owners need to maintain good hygiene and regularly check the health of their pets.

Pets such as dogs, cats, and rabbits need to be kept clean and dewormed regularly. If you notice any signs of skin disease in your pet (hair loss, peeling skin patches), you should take them to a veterinarian for treatment immediately.

Additionally, when suffering from fungal skin infections due to contact with dogs, cats, etc., patients should pay attention to regular personal hygiene and avoid wearing damp clothing.

It is necessary to boil, iron, or dry clothes in the sun, especially underwear. Avoid contact with sources of infection such as dogs and cats. Absolutely do not share clothes or bedding with sick people, and avoid bathing with soap.

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/ca-gia-dinh-bi-nhiem-nam-da-lay-tu-meo-20241119093554987.htm