Is Athlete’s Foot Contagious?

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that causes an itchy and scaly rash between the toes. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the foot, such as the heels, soles, and sides of the feet. The fungi that cause athlete’s foot, known as dermophytes, tend to grow on feet that are damp for extended periods.

Athlete’s foot is incredibly contagious and can spread in various situations and conditions.

This article discusses how the fungus that causes athlete’s foot is transmitted and how long the infection is contagious.

How Does Athlete’s Foot Spread?

Athlete’s foot is so contagious that roughly 20% to 25% of the world’s population has had it at some point in their lives. There are three main methods by which the infection spreads:

• When the scales from the rash that develops shed and someone comes into contact with them
• When someone comes into contact with the fungus that causes the infection in damp settings such as swimming pools or communal showers
• Sharing sheets, towels, shoes, or clothing with someone who has an active athlete’s foot infection

How Long Is Athlete’s Foot Contagious?

Once athlete’s foot is treated, the infection should clear up within two to four weeks. However, athlete's foot can be challenging to get rid of because the fungi tend to live for a long time on the skin.

As long as the fungus is still on the skin of the feet, even during treatment, you can still pass it on to others.

Prevent Athlete’s Foot From Spreading

When you have athlete’s foot or are in the process of treating it, you should avoid spreading the fungus as best you can. Avoid sharing things like towels, shoes, socks, or clothing with other people.

Sleeping with socks on while in bed with your partner and wearing shoes whenever possible in public spaces can also reduce your chance of transmitting it when you’re contagious.

Avoid the use of public showers or pools until your infection has cleared. Wash your hands immediately after touching or scratching the affected area so you don’t spread the fungus elsewhere.

Treatment

The first-line treatment for athlete’s foot is an antifungal medication. The type and strength of the medication will vary depending on how severe the infection is.

For example, a mild infection typically responds to an over-the-counter topical antifungal. A more severe case may require a prescription or oral antifungal medication.

Oral antifungal medication is also used when topically applying medication doesn’t work or isn’t appropriate for the individual.

Summary

Athlete’s foot is a highly contagious fungal infection that affects the feet. When a person gets athlete’s foot, It is typically caused by damp and humid conditions or contracting the fungus from someone else. The infection can spread easily from person to person.

If you have athlete’s foot, it is up to you to prevent the spread. To do so, you can wear socks to bed, avoid communal showers, and wash your hands after you touch the infection. Keeping your hands clean will also prevent spreading the infection to other parts of your body.

A Word From Verywell 

While athlete’s foot is incredibly common, it is still annoying to deal with. The rash and itching associated with the infection will continue to worsen if you don’t get prompt treatment. That’s why it’s important to always seek medical advice if you suspect you may have athlete’s foot.

Seeing your healthcare provider as soon as you notice symptoms will help you manage athlete's foot and reduce the risk of transmitting it to others.