Ringworm isn't actually a worm at all. It's a fungal infection that creates a distinctive ring-shaped rash on the skin. The red, scaly circle looks like a tiny worm curled up under your skin, which is how it got its misleading name. But the real culprit is a fungus, similar to the ones that cause athlete's foot.

The infection spreads easily through direct contact with infected people, animals, or contaminated surfaces like gym mats or locker room floors. Wrestlers, for example, often deal with ringworm because they have so much skin-to-skin contact during matches. Cats and dogs can carry it too, passing it to people who pet them.

The ring appears because the fungus spreads outward from a central point, leaving healthier-looking skin in the middle while the infection advances at the edges. This creates that telltale circular shape. Doctors treat ringworm with antifungal creams, and it usually clears up within a few weeks.

Despite its creepy name and appearance, ringworm is common, treatable, and nothing to panic about. But it's contagious, so if you notice a suspicious ring-shaped rash on your skin, tell an adult so you can get it treated and avoid spreading it to others.