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Ball pythons and ringworm....

lizzard305 Jan 07, 2004 03:46 PM

I recently purchased a female from a local pet shop for my little brother, i myself have not yet experienced any problems with this and own 3 bps but he just got a ringworm and i believe maybe from the snake due to the research i have done on the net, is this possible and if so what should be done...thnx

Replies (2)

IMO Jan 07, 2004 07:18 PM

These are from some websites but probably confirm your suspicions. I would take the take to a vet and little brother could use some antifungal cream or see a medical doctor. It may not be the snake but better be safe than sorry.

A number of fungal organisms can cause superficial and deeper infections of snakes. Most of these infections involve the skin and respiratory system. Fungal infections of the eyes are most likely to occur in snakes housed in damp, contaminated environments. Ringworm fungi that usually infect people, pets and livestock have also caused skin infections of snakes.

Ringworm is treated with antifungal medications including shampoo, cream, or oral medicine. Over-the-counter anti-fungal creams found in pharmacies can be used to treat this skin infection. It usually takes up to a week or so to clear. If the ringworm returns or seems to worsen, have your child's pediatrician evaluate it. Instead of putting cream on the skin, taking a medicine by mouth (tablets or liquids) may be necessary, particularly when the fungal infection involves the scalp.

Ringworm is contagious (spread to others) through direct contact with an infected person or animal. It can also be spread indirectly through contact with the clothes, combs, or brushes of others who have it. Once treatment has begun and the circular rash begins to shrink, the rash won't be contagious. Until then, however, a person with ringworm can spread it to others

A veterinarian must examine Snakes exhibiting problems with their skin and/or eyes as soon as possible. A microbial culture and a skin biopsy may be necessary to obtain a diagnosis. Treatment of fungal diseases involves use of topical and systemic (oral and/or injectable) antifungal agents. Prevention of fungal disease involves correcting underlying problems with husbandry.

LaBete Jan 08, 2004 09:42 AM

>>I recently purchased a female from a local pet shop for my little brother, i myself have not yet experienced any problems with this and own 3 bps but he just got a ringworm and i believe maybe from the snake due to the research i have done on the net, is this possible and if so what should be done...thnx

You should take the snake and your little brother to the vet. Why? Because the vet may be able to respond more quickly if he can verify from your brother's appearance that it is ringworm instead of taking your word for it. Then slather your little brother with anti-fungal cream, treat the snake as directed, keep the enclosure clean and avoid handling except when necessary until the problem is resolved.

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