Investigation of a ringworm outbreak at a daycare center in Seine-et-Marne (France), 2009–2010: the importance of mass screening

Introduction - Ringworm outbreaks in France are primarily caused by the following three anthropophilic dermatophytes: Microsporum langeronii (M. langeronii), Trichophyton soudanense (T. soudanense), and Trichophyton tonsurans (T. tonsurans). They most commonly occur in settings where children gather. Several factors may contribute to their persistence within these communities, notably delayed diagnosis due to nonspecific clinical presentation. Materials and Methods - In response to the persistence of anthropophilic ringworm cases within a daycare center, a mass mycological screening involving scalp swabs was conducted on all children present, the staff, and volunteer family members of an infected child. An epidemiological investigation was conducted in parallel to gather various information regarding the study population (sociodemographic characteristics, clinical signs, treatments followed, etc.). Results - From October 2009 to May 2010, 11 cases of anthropophilic ringworm, including 9 caused by M. langeronii and 2 by T. soudanense, were biologically confirmed among 83 individuals attending the daycare center (children and staff) or having a direct connection to it. Eight cases were identified among children attending the daycare center and 3 cases among family members of one of the children infected with M. langeroni. No cases of ringworm were diagnosed among staff members. Discussion-Conclusion - By involving all relevant parties, an epidemiological investigation, combined with mass mycological screening and the prescription of appropriate treatment, enabled the management of a ringworm outbreak within a daycare center. This study confirms the value of comprehensive mycological screening in community settings as well as testing for dermatophytes among family members. (R.A.)

Author(s): Deudon M, Viguie Vallanet C, Robert C, Carre N

Publishing year: 2011

Pages: 13-5

Weekly Epidemiological Bulletin, 2011, n° 2, p. 13-5

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