Infectious Nail Fungus

For most people, worries about infectious nail fungus are not an everyday concern. With cases of fungal finger- and nail fungus (onychomycosis) on the rise, however, it’s good to have a general knowledge of the problem and the personal hygiene steps that anyone can take to avoid this type of persistent infection. What are these fungi and where do they come from? How infectious are they? And what, if anything, makes people more susceptible to them? In fact, some of these things are still not well understood, but we can at least begin to answer the questions.

What is infectious nail fungus and where does it come from? There are actually a number of different fungi involved in the process. Some are fungi naturally occurring in nature, in decaying organic material. They don’t normally infect living organisms but can do so in the right circumstances. Another group, called dermatophytes, includes fungi adapted for living on and consuming hair, skin, nails, hoofs, horns etc. These are the species we really need to know about if we want to avoid onychomycosis. Though they can be present in soil and other places in nature, they are usually passed more directly between people or between animals and people.

How infectious are they? Well, it’s true that some people can’t seem to avoid onychomycosis while others never have to deal with it. The basic answer is that these fungi get nutrients by breaking down keratin, a protein found in dead skin cells, hair, and nails, and therefore they need these materials for success. They will establish themselves in finger-and toenails whenever they get the chance. To ward off infectious nail fungus we need to make sure they don’t get the chance.

What makes some people more susceptible? Again, we’re not sure, but certain groups stand out as being more likely to contract infectious nail fungus. There may be a genetic connection: it seems to affect some families more than others. It becomes increasingly difficult to avoid onychomycosis as we grow older, presumably due to waning immunity. Certain occupations are at higher risk: those who often have damp feet and hands, people who work with soil of other organic material, people working in hot damp conditions. But these things don’t explain all cases.

To avoid onychomycosis, there are basic things we can all do. Keep hands and feet cool and dry, wash frequently and clean and dry carefully between the toes. Keep nails trimmed and do not share nail grooming equipment with others. Don’t wear other people’s shoes. Change socks daily. Avoid going barefoot in public places, particularly where the ground is damp, and see a medical professional at the first sign of infectious nail fungus.