Although it is a superficial skin infection, ringworm in cattle may have a significant impact on management and economics in affected herds. Once the disease is introduced into a herd, it spreads easily from one animal to another. Spores may survive in the environment for 2 to 3 y, and calves or purchased animals introduced into the herd are likely to contract infection. The inflammation of the skin is associated with unthriftiness and general discomfort in affected animals. In addition, secondary bacterial infections may occur.
Ringworm is a zoonosis. According to a Swedish and a Swiss study, 29% and 74%, respectively, ofdairy farmers had experienced ringworm