10 Highly Contagious Skin Diseases

When too-minute-to-see bacteria or viruses get under the skin, it is past powerful for the immune defenses to fight against it. As a result, it causes infection. While they're certainly not easy to cope with, these contagious infections can be prevented. Let's know more about these Highly Contagious Skin Diseases.

1. Herpes

Herpes is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). This virus affects the anal region, external genitalia, mucosal surfaces, and skin in other parts of the body. As per WHO, 67% of the population, under the age of 50 are infected with herpes. It is a long-term condition of which signs and symptoms are not very much visible. This skin infection spread from skin-to-skin contact often during oral sex, vaginal sex, anal sex, and kissing. Herpes can also cause outbursts of painful, itchy blisters or sores that come and go. Symptoms:

• ulcers
• blisters
• cold sores
• pain when urinating
• vaginal discharge

2. Scabies

Scabies is one of the most common dermatological conditions. According to WHO, it globally affects more than 130 million people at any time. It is a highly infectious skin disease caused by an invasion of the itch mite Sarcoptes scabiei. The itch mite causes rashes that look like pimples and intense itching. Scabies is communicable through prolonged skin-to-skin contact. It is often found around the belly button and waist, between the fingers, on the knees or on the buttocks. To cure this infectious disease, a prescriptive topical lotion or shampoo is suggested by the doctor. Symptoms:

• itching
• bumps
• red scaly patches
• blisters

3. Ringworm

Also known as tinea corporis, Ringworm is a fungal infection that spreads on the top layer of the skin. As per its name it appears to be a ring-like red rash that causes intense itching. Ringworm is caused by a fungus which is also responsible for causing jock itch and athlete's foot. This infection spreads by direct skin-to-skin contact with a contaminated person or animal. Anyone can contract ringworm by touching infected objects, such as clothing, hair accessories, or towels. Mild ringworm usually responds to antifungal medications. For severe infections, there might be a need to take antifungal pills for several weeks. Symptoms:

• red
• itchy skin
• ring-like rash

4. Impetigo

Impetigo is a highly infectious skin condition that primarily affects infants and children. However, adults can get it too. The most common parts where this skin condition shows are on the face, arms, or legs. It is less common in form of large blisters which affect the armpits or groin. Impetigo is caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Other warning factors that can increase the risk of contracting impetigo are dermatitis, diabetes mellitus, immunodeficiency disorders, and other prickly skin disorders. Impetigo usually causes red sores around the nose and mouth which are treatable using topical antibiotics. The infection is most likely to occur in humid and warm environments. If the rashes or sores cause a burning sensation or inflammation, consult the doctor. Symptoms:

• reddish spots on the skin
• sores turning into blisters
• itchy
• occasionally painful

5. Thrush

Thrush is an oral yeast infection in the babies. This infection causes yellow or creamy white patches to appear on the roof, sides, lips, gums, and tongue of a baby's mouth. It can easily spread to the throat, tonsils, or esophagus. Antifungal topical creams are very useful in treating this infection. Most skin conditions get better within a week or two, although recurrences are common. Symptoms:

• white patches on the lips or tongue
• cracked skin in the corners of the mouth
• poor diet

6. Shingles

Shingles is a skin condition characterized by a painful, burning rash that affects one side of the body, mainly the torso or face. This infection may also be referred to as zoster, herpes zoster or zona. Shingles are caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox in children. This skin condition is more common in grown-up individuals and in those with weakened immune systems. Besides, the risk of spreading the virus is low if the infected person covers their shingle blisters. Once the blisters scab is over, they're no longer contagious. Symptoms:

• a headache
• body aches
• fever
• chills
• malaise
• nausea
• swollen lymph glands

7. Athlete's Foot

Athlete's foot is a skin fungal infection that affects the feet. It is highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact. Walking barefoot around the pool or in the shower at the gym may increase the chance of contracting athlete's foot. The risk of getting athlete's foot can also depend on one's susceptibility. For instance, people who have diabetes are at greater risk. It is unsuspected to get better on its own, however, antifungal topical medications can help. Symptoms:

• dry flaking skin
• unpleasant foot odor
• small itchy blisters on the soles of the feet

8. Jock Itch

Also known as Tinea Cruris, Jock Itch is a highly contagious skin condition caused by fungus or yeast. This infection causes an itchy and annoying rash in people who sweat a lot, such as sportsperson. The reaction is often found in the buttock, genital, and thigh region. Jock Itch spreads from one person to the next by direct skin-to-skin contact as well as contact with unwashed clothing. This infection responds well to topical antifungal creams, through oral medications can also be used. Symptoms:

• burning
• itching, or pain around the rash
• flaking and scaling skin over the rash

9. Warts

Warts are non-cancerous skin growths that show when a virus contaminates the upper layer of the skin. This skin condition is caused by a virus known as human papillomavirus (HPV). People are more prone to get one of these viruses if they damage or cut the skin in some way. Warts are a contagious skin infection. It can spread by coming into direct contact with the wart or something that touched the wart. These are usually skin-colored and feel rough, but they can be dark brown or grey, flat, and smooth. Symptoms:

• small and fleshy bumps
• flesh-colored, pink, grey or tan bumps
• rough to the touch

10. Cold Sores

Cold sores are small blisters or cluster of blisters that often develop around the mouth or on the lip. This skin infection is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Cold sores usually cure in two to four weeks without leaving a scar. They spread from person to person by close and direct contact, such as kissing. This skin condition is infectious until all the sores have scabbed over. Symptoms:

• burning, itching, or tingling sensation around the lips
• small fluid-filled blisters
• oozing fluid and then crust over

How to Keep off from These Highly Contagious Skin Diseases?

• Try the best not to get breaks or cuts on the skin. This is how those harmful germs get in there in the first place.
• Keep the skin nourished by keeping it clean and moist. Apply moisturizer, especially when it's dry and cold.
• Use sunscreen. Way too much sun revelation can suppress the immune system and can also cause sunburn.
• Wear shoes or sandals with socks when outside. It will help in protecting the skin of the feet.

Proper hygiene and good skin care can help in avoiding unnecessary troubles to the skin. Be alert to follow through.