Ringworm warning issued as huge number of young men infected from barbers

Ringworm Warning Issued After Increase in Infections Among Young Men from Barbers

A warning on hygiene has been raised following a significant surge in ringworm cases among men visiting barbers. The uptick is attributed to the popularity of skin fade haircuts and the proliferation of “cheap, dirty unqualified barbershops” popping up across UK streets. Mike Taylor, who operates a barbering training academy in Poole, Dorset, noted that 70% to 80% of clients now request skin fades. The technique involves using a foil clipper that requires thorough cleaning, a step that reportedly may not be consistently carried out.

Health experts clarify that ringworm is a common fungal infection, notwithstanding its misleading name with no actual involvement of worms. Symptoms commonly manifest as a rash that can vary in appearance depending on skin tone, often accompanied by itchiness. Ringworm transmission can occur through close contact with an infected person, animal, objects like bedsheets or combs, and occasionally from contaminated soil.

Barbers like Mike Taylor advocate for stricter regulations in the hairdressing sector to ensure proper standards are upheld. Gareth Penn, from the Hair and Barber Council, supports the idea of a mandatory register for hairdressers and barbers to deter untrained individuals from practicing in the industry or exploiting it for illicit activities. The call for enhanced oversight echoes concerns about the rise of inexpensive but potentially substandard services in the market.

Despite calls for regulation, the Government presently has no immediate plans to intervene in overseeing the hairdressing sector, though it remains open to reviewing evidence for potential future actions. Collaboration with industry stakeholders and efforts by the HMRC to combat tax fraud within the sector are cited as ongoing initiatives.

In light of the emerging issue, it is crucial for individuals to be mindful of hygiene practices when visiting barbers to prevent the spread of conditions like ringworm. Regular cleaning and disinfection of equipment, alongside seeking services from reputable and qualified professionals, can help mitigate health risks associated with barber visits.

**Insights:**
The increase in ringworm cases linked to barbershops sheds light on the importance of hygiene standards in the grooming industry. Consumers must be vigilant about where they choose to get their haircuts to safeguard against potential infections. The debate over regulating the sector underscores the need for industry-wide standards to ensure public health and safety. As trends evolve and new practices become popular, maintaining stringent hygiene protocols is paramount to prevent the spread of contagious conditions.