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Overview of Human Ringworm
Phylum Nematodes (roundworms), phyla of Pseudocoelomates, have been characterized as a "tube within a tube," describing the fluid-filled cavity between the outer body wall and the digestive tube. Nematodes are very small, their size ranges from 400 micrometers to 5 mm. The majority of Nematodes feed on bacteria, fungi, and other soil organisms; the Nematodes that cause harm to humans, animals, and crops are parasitic in nature living off of its host.
Nematodes are free-living, colorless, unsegmented, lack appendages, and live almost everywhere on the face of the Earth. They have the ability to cryptobiosis, or suspend their life processes completely when conditions become bleak. It is no wonder that they have been around since before mankind.
Well known parasitic Nematodes are: Hookworms, Pinworms, Guinea Worms, and Intestinal Roundworms. Practicing good hygiene is the best way to prevent an infestation of Nematodes. Children are very susceptible to Nematodes since they like to handle pets and play in the dirt. "Dogs and cats infected with these worms contaminate their surroundings by passing eggs or larvae in their feces (waste). Because pets will pass feces anywhere, they may contaminate a large area quickly. These eggs and larvae are resilient and can survive in areas such as parks, playgrounds, and yards. Even inside homes." CDC (Center for Disease Control) A human can ingest the parasitic Nematode eggs by contaminated soil.
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