Treating Microsporum canis in pets is straightforward. Veterinary teams frequently make recommendations for cleaning the home, but the efficacy of these recommendations has not been evaluated.
- Decontamination of hard surfaces involves thorough mechanical cleaning followed by disinfectant application.
- Less is known about successful decontamination of carpet with dermatophyte spores.
Source: Clinician’s Brief, July 2017.
Key pearls to put into practice for clients:
- Vacuuming alone does not decontaminate carpet but is an important first step in removing infective hairs.
- Shampooing is effective for carpet decontamination but is more labor intensive because two cleanings are needed.
- Disinfectants labeled against Trichophyton spp. are effective preshampooing treatments but may discolor carpet. Pretreatment may be needed in high-risk situations or in situations that require a high level of decontamination.
- Commercial hot water extraction effectively decontaminates and is the least labor-intensive option. Depending on cost of the extractor, it may be more expensive than carpet shampooing.
INSIGHTS: Share this information assertively with clients in various communications formats. Microsporum canis is a communicable pathogen, a fungal species that causes numerous forms of disease. It is part of a group of fungi known as Dermatophytes. Though mostly known for ringworm in pets, it is also known to infect humans. This makes this pathogen anthrophilic and zoophilic in nature.