Skin Infections: Which Student-Athletes Are at Greatest Risk?

Skin infections are a common ailment that affect all students, with increased risk to those students participating in sport and specifically contact sports. The types of skin infections that students are likely to encounter are categorized into three types: (a) bacterial, (b) viral, and (c) fungal. All three types of infection can appear benign at onset but can grow into serious disease and illness if not correctly identified and treated in a timely manner. A strong prevention program should be in place at all schools with appropriate resources in place (human and financial) to carry out proper cleaning of facilities, on-site examination by the school nurse or athletic trainer, and sufficient education of coaches, athletes, parents and administrators.