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Are You Contagious? Check When You're Most Likely To Spread COVID, The Flu, Norovirus And Other Common Illnesses

It's that time of year! People are spreading holiday cheer — and germs, leading to sicknesses like COVID, flu, RSV, norovirus stomach bug and more. But how long are you contagious?

Dr. Carla Garcia Carreno, Children's Medical Center Plano director of infection prevention and control, is already seeing upticks in RSV, COVID and flu in her area, she told CBS News. 

And a late winter wave of COVID infections is also looking likely. COVID-19 surveillance data indicates that the winter wave is beginning later than in past seasons where the median peaks were in December or January, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Luckily, there are ways to help prevent illness, including social distancing, washing our hands and getting vaccinated. 

But if you do end up coming down with something, here's what to know to keep others safe this holiday season. 

How long is COVID contagious?

People with COVID-19 can be infectious from one to two days before and up to eight to 10 days after symptoms begin, according to the CDC.

"The majority of transmission appears to occur during the early periods of infection, particularly in the 1 to 2 days before symptoms start and within the first few days of symptom onset," its website notes. 

COVID symptoms in 2024 may vary depending on vaccination status but can include:

Cough

Congestion or runny nose

Diarrhea

Fever or chills

Shortness of breath

Loss of taste or smell

Sore throat

Fatigue

Still, it's important to test and not diagnose on your own, experts say.

"If you come in with some symptoms of cough or sore throat or runny nose, whatever it is, I can't tell you if that's a cold, if it's walking pneumonia, if it's COVID or the flu. You do need to test," Dr. Céline Gounder, CBS News medical contributor and editor-at-large for public health at KFF Health News, said recently on "CBS Mornings."

Asymptomatic individuals can also transmit the virus. 

So how do we know when it's safe to be around others? You no longer have to wait to test negative. Instead, the CDC has shared simplified guidelines for when to end isolation after contracting the virus: fever-free for 24 hours and improved symptoms. 

"Once the person is fever-free for 24 hours without the use of any fever-reducing medicines like ibuprofen, they should be a little bit out of the woods ... But also your respiratory symptoms need to be improving," Garcia Carreno said.

After this period, you can start going out but it's a good idea to still take precautions to keep others safe. 

"For example, try to social distance from others, and, if possible, wear a mask. That's usually recommended for an additional five-day period," she said. 

In addition to COVID, these guidelines also apply to other respiratory infections, including flu and RSV, Garcia Carreno said. 

How long is the flu contagious?

In most people infected, influenza viruses can be detected starting one day before symptoms begin and up to five to seven days after becoming sick, according to the CDC. 

"People with flu are most contagious during the first three days of their illness. Some people, including young children and people with weakened immune systems may be contagious for longer periods of time," the agency's website states. 

The CDC's update guidelines apply here, meaning you can return to normal after being fever-free for 24 hours without medication and have improved symptoms.

Garcia Carreno said the use of medications like Tamiflu also don't change these timelines. 

"The use of antivirals shouldn't be a factor for prolonging the spread of the of the illness," she said. 

While antiviral medications can help with symptoms, people should still monitor fever and symptoms based on the CDC's updated guidelines. 

How long is the norovirus stomach bug contagious?

People sick with stomach flu, also known as viral gastroenteritis or the norovirus stomach bug, will generally get better within 1 to 3 days — but they can still spread the virus to others for days after, and the virus can survive on surfaces and continue to infect people for weeks.

"You can still spread norovirus for 2 weeks or more after you feel better," the CDC website states. 

Norovirus is a gastrointestinal virus, not a respiratory virus like other illnesses we see this time of year, Garcia Carreno explained. 

"It's also very contagious, but it's more contagious via vomiting and diarrhea, so it's through fecal (and) oral (transmission)," she said. "So hand-washing is really important, and it's important to say that usually we need bleach products for norovirus to be inactivated."

Cases of norovirus are surging in parts of the United States this winter, CDC data show.

If somebody is sick with norovirus at home, Garcia Carreno advises sterilizing or decontaminating the restroom that person used.

In addition to hand-washing to ward off illness, it's also a good idea to avoid sharing cups and utensils with others to prevent both gastrointestinal and respiratory viruses, she said. 

How long is RSV contagious?

People with RSV are usually contagious for three to eight days, according to the CDC. They may also become contagious a day or two before they start showing symptoms. 

"Some infants and people with weakened immune systems can continue to spread the virus for 4 weeks or longer, even after they stop showing symptoms," the agency notes. 

The same CDC guidelines for COVID and flu also apply to RSV — people can end isolation after being fever-free for 24 hours without fever-reducing medicines and have improved symptoms.

How long is pneumonia contagious?

In general, the rule that applies to other respiratory viruses is also used for bacterial pneumonia, Garcia Carreno said, meaning once someone is fever-free for 24 hours and seeing symptom improvements they should not be as contagious. 

"Also, for the majority, of these pneumonias, you usually are not contagious after 24 hours of antibiotics. So once you have received 24 hours of effective or appropriate antibiotics ... The contagiousness will decrease," she said. 

How long is the common cold contagious?

You're most contagious when symptoms are at their worst, according to the Cleveland Clinic, which is usually the first three days.

But you can still spread the sickness beyond that timeframe. 

"You can be contagious for up to two weeks, even spreading a cold a day or two before you have symptoms," the clinic's website reads.

The classic common cold virus is rhinovirus, and the same rules will apply for rhinovirus (as other respiratory viruses)," Garcia Carreno said, but warned rhinovirus is "one of the most contagious viruses" even if its symptoms are milder. 

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MoreSara Moniuszko

Sara Moniuszko is a health and lifestyle reporter at CBSNews.Com. Previously, she wrote for USA Today, where she was selected to help launch the newspaper's wellness vertical. She now covers breaking and trending news for CBS News' HealthWatch.

What You Need To Know About Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection in the deeper layers of skin and the fat and soft tissue underneath. Symptoms can include skin discoloration, swelling, and tenderness. A person may require antibiotics for cellulitis.

There are around 14 million cases of cellulitis each year in the United States.

Some bacteria are naturally present on the skin and do not usually cause harm. However, if they enter the skin, an infection can result. Bacteria can enter the skin through cuts, grazes, or bites.

Cellulitis is not the same as cellulite, a harmless "orange peel" effect that can appear on the upper arms and thighs.

Cellulitis is a painful bacterial infection of the deeper layers of skin.

It can start suddenly and may become life threatening without prompt treatment.

Mild cases involve a localized infection, with discoloration in one area. More serious cases involve a rapidly spreading infection that can lead to an extreme immune response called sepsis.

The spread will depend, to some extent, on how strong the person's immune system is.

There are different types of cellulitis, depending on where the infection occurs.

periorbital cellulitis, which develops around the eyes

facial cellulitis, which develops around the eyes, nose, and cheeks

breast cellulitis

perianal cellulitis, which develops around the anal orifice

Cellulitis can occur anywhere on the body, including the hands and feet. Adults tend to develop cellulitis in the lower leg, while children tend to develop it on the face or neck.

Cellulitis usually begins as a swollen, pink, or red patch of skin that may increase in size and severity as the infection spreads. This patch of skin may look darker in darker skin tones.

The following symptoms may occur in the affected area:

discoloration and swelling

warmth

tenderness and pain

Some people develop blisters. A person may also experience other symptoms of an infection, such as:

In addition, the lymph glands may swell and become tender. Cellulitis in the leg, for example, may affect the groin's lymph glands.

Other similar conditions

Several other conditions share similar symptoms to cellulitis.

Erysipelas: Like cellulitis, erysipelas is a bacterial skin infection characterized by skin discoloration and pain. However, erysipelas usually affect the outer layers of the skin, whereas cellulitis affects the deeper layers.

Stasis dermatitis: This condition occurs due to insufficient blood flow and typically affects the lower legs. It can cause skin discoloration, ulcers, and swelling and may be treatable with lifestyle changes and medical or surgical procedures.

Dermatitis: Similar to cellulitis, dermatitis can cause skin discoloration, swelling, and blisters. However, it is usually the result of skin irritation and may be treatable with topical medications and antihistamines.

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): This condition usually affects the legs and results from a blood clot in a deep vein. Though it also causes pain, swelling, and skin discoloration, similar to cellulitis, DVT treatment usually involves taking a blood thinner, such as warfarin.

Early treatment with antibiotics is usually successful. Most people receive treatment at home, but some need it in a hospital.

A doctor may suggest one or more of the following treatments:

Medication

A mild case of cellulitis usually responds to oral antibiotic treatment in 7–14 days. The symptoms may initially worsen, but they usually start easing within 2 days.

Different types of antibiotics can treat cellulitis. The doctor will decide on the best option after considering the type of bacteria causing the infection and factors specific to each person.

Most people recoverwithin 2 weeks, but it may take longer if the symptoms are severe.

A doctor may prescribe a low dose oral antibiotic for a person to take long-term to help prevent a reoccurrence.

Treatment in the hospital

Some people with severe cellulitis require hospital treatment, especially if:

they have signs of infection, such as a high fever or chills

the current treatment is not working

the cellulitis is near a medical device in their body

they have a weak immune system

In the hospital, most people with this type of infection receive antibiotic treatment through an IV, with a drip that delivers the medication through a vein in the arm.

Cellulitis is usually the result of bacteria from the Streptococcus and Staphylococcus groups.

These bacteria are common on the skin's surface, where they are not harmful.

However, if they enter the skin, usually through a cut or scratch, they can cause an infection.

Cellulitis is not usually contagious but can be spread through contact if a person with an open wound touches skin that has an active infection.

Risk factors

Factors that can increase the risk of cellulitis include:

Age: Cellulitis is more likely to occur during or after middle age.

Obesity: Cellulitis is more common among people with excess weight or obesity.

Diabetes: If a person is not able to manage their diabetes effectively, problems with their immune system, circulation, or both can lead to skin ulcers.

Lymphedema: This can lead to swollen skin that can crack and allow bacteria to enter.

Circulatory problems: People with poor blood circulation have a higher risk of infection spreading to deeper layers of the skin.

Recent surgery or injury: This increases the risk of infection.

Other conditions: People with liver or kidney disease have a higher risk of developing cellulitis.

IV drugs: Injecting drugs, especially with needles that they have used before, can lead to abscesses and infections under the skin, increasing the risk of cellulitis.

Past cellulitis: Research suggests that up to 47 percent of people with predisposing risk factors experience recurrent cellulitis after their first episode.

Weakened immune system: People may have this if they are older, if they have HIV or AIDS, or if they are undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

Other skin issues: Chickenpox, eczema, athlete's foot, and other skin conditions can increase the risk of bacteria entering the body.

Leg issues: Swelling (edema) and ulceration can increase the risk of developing the infection.

A doctor will examine the individual and assess their symptoms.

The doctor may ask about any medications a person takes, their symptoms, and their medical history.

They may also collect a swab sample or take a biopsy to determine the type of bacteria present. Laboratory tests can help rule out other possible causes, as other conditions can look similar to cellulitis.

Identifying the cause and type of bacteria enables a doctor to prescribe the most suitable treatment. However, this can be challenging, as various types of bacteria on the skin can lead to inaccurate results.

Questions that a person may want to ask their doctor include:

How long will treatment take?

What side effects may be caused by this medication?

How can infection be prevented in the future?

What are some ways to manage other preexisting medical conditions?

Serious complications can arise in rare cases. They include:

Permanent swelling: Without treatment, the person may develop permanent swelling in the affected area.

Blood infection and sepsis: This life threatening condition results from bacteria entering the bloodstream, requiring rapid treatment. Symptoms of sepsis include a fever, a rapid heartbeat, rapid breathing, and clammy skin.

Infection in other regions: In very rare cases, bacteria that have caused cellulitis may spread and infect other parts of the body, including the muscles, bones, or heart valves. If this happens, the person needs immediate treatment.

In most cases, effective treatment can help prevent complications.

Cellulitis requires immediate medical treatment, meaning it will not respond to home treatment.

However, a person can do some things to feel more comfortable while waiting for medical attention and during treatment.

drinking plenty of water

keeping the affected area raised to help reduce swelling and pain

regularly moving the affected part of the body to help prevent stiffness

taking pain relief medication, such as ibuprofen

not wearing compression stockings until the infection has healed

Anyone with symptoms should receive medical help immediately because untreated cellulitis can be life threatening.

A person cannot always prevent cellulitis from developing, but there are some ways toreduce the risk.

Treat cuts and grazes: Keep any cut, bite, graze, or wound — including those from a recent surgery — clean to reduce the risk of infection.

Practice thorough hygiene: Wash hands often and shower regularly to decrease the skin's contact with bacteria.

Avoid scratching: If an insect bite, for example, is itchy, ask a pharmacist about how to reduce this feeling. When scratching is unavoidable, keeping the fingernails clean and short can help prevent infection.

Take care of the skin: Moisturizers can help prevent dry skin from cracking, but they will not help if an infection is already present.

Protect the skin: Wear gloves and long sleeves while gardening, and avoid wearing shorts if the skin is likely to be grazed. Covering up can also help prevent insect bites.

Maintain a weight that is healthy for the individual: Having obesity may raise the risk of developing cellulitis.

Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption: These may also increase the risk of developing cellulitis.

Seek help for other medical conditions: Because people with certain health issues may be at a higher risk of infection, they should work with their doctor to help manage their condition.

Manage diabetes: Exercise regularly, take medications as prescribed, and limit consumption of processed foods and added sugar to maintain safe blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of infection.

People who take IV drugs can seek help through their doctor or by contacting the U.S. National helpline for treatment referrals and information. The number to call is 1-800-662-HELP (4357). Calls are free and confidential, and the line is open 24/7.

Does stress cause cellulitis?

Stress does not directly cause cellulitis. However, stress can weaken the immune system and make it more prone to infection, including cellulitis.

Is cellulitis linked to poor hygiene?

Yes, cellulitis can be linked to poor hygiene. To prevent it from returning, people are encouraged to keep their skin clean to wash away the bacteria that causes cellulitis.

Treating cuts, scrapes, and wounds immediately with soap, water, and a bandage can help reduce this risk.

Can cellulitis turn into sepsis?

Yes, cellulitis can turn into sepsis. This can happen if the infection spreads to the bloodstream, causing a severe, life threatening response.

Cellulitis is a potentially severe infection in the deeper layers of the skin and the tissue beneath.

It can cause severe discomfort, and it can be life threatening. If a person seeks treatment as soon as symptoms appear, there is a good chance that the treatment will be effective.

Having cellulitis once increases the risk of it returning. However, a person can take steps to help prevent this.

15 Common Skin Diseases In Adults: Images And Treatments

There are more than 10 common skin diseases seen in adults, such as acne, atopic dermatitis (eczema), cold sores, hives, and psoriasis. It can be difficult to identify these skin problems by images alone.

These conditions often share symptoms like burning and itching. Rashes that appear red in people with lighter skin tones or brown or purple in people with darker skin tones are also common.

Common causes include bacteria, viruses, allergens, irritants, and immune system dysfunction. If you suspect an infection or underlying condition that may require treatment, it's important to see a healthcare provider.

BSIP/UIG/Getty Images Acne occurs when oil and dead skin cells clog the pores. Pimples under the skin's surface that erupt with a white center are called whiteheads. Pimples exposed to air are called blackheads and look black.  Other skin blemishes may form, including: Cysts Nodules Pink bumps Red, pus-filled pimples Acne usually appears on the face, back, neck, chest, and shoulders. Bacteria called Cutibacterium acnes, hormone changes, and inflammation can play a role when pimples crop up. Some hormones trigger excess oil production, resulting in clogged pores. Adolescents are more prone to acne than others. Treatment Options Treatment depends on a few factors, such as where acne appears, the type you have, and your age. Options may include: Corticosteroid injections for large, painful acne breakouts Diet changes Laser or light therapy Oral medications, like antibiotics or retinoids Topical medications, like retinoids or benzoyl peroxide CHOKSAWATDIKORN / SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Getty Images Dermatitis (eczema) is a dry, itchy skin condition that can occur anywhere. Atopic dermatitis is the most common type. It's due to an overactive immune system and usually occurs in childhood. A deficiency in a protein called filaggrin that helps skin maintain water content or moisture can trigger this condition. Atopic dermatitis can also cause certain types of blistering. It may be chronic, but it's not contagious. People with severe eczema are at a higher risk for food allergies and asthma.  Treatment Options Treatments for atopic dermatitis may include: Antihistamines Immunosuppressant medicines that reduce immune system response Light therapy Steroids (used short-term) Topical medicines Trigger avoidance, where a person avoids the allergens or irritants that cause flares Cellulitis. DR P. MARAZZI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY   Cellulitis is the likely diagnosis when bacteria infect the skin layers and tissue below the skin. The skin may be discolored, swollen, tender, and feel warm to the touch. You may develop cellulitis anywhere on the skin. It typically appears on one lower leg in adults and on the face or neck in children. Treatment Options Cellulitis is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment. The main treatment is an antibiotic, but people may need to take more than one in some cases. Other options include wound care, rest, and elevation for cellulitis on the leg. Boy_Anupong / Getty Images A viral infection usually causes cold sores (fever blisters), which are contagious. Cold sores are tiny, painful, fluid-filled blisters.  Type 1 of the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) causes cold sores, also called oral herpes. Type 2 of the herpes simplex virus (HSV-2) affects the genital region. HSV-1 can also spread from the mouth to the genitals. Cold sores often appear in clusters on or around the lips. You may experience a tingling sensation in the affected area before a breakout. Treatment Options There's no cure for cold sores, and they often go away after a few weeks without treatment. Antiviral medications can speed recovery. DermNet Contact dermatitis causes skin rashes that are inflamed and usually discolored and uncomfortable. This inflammation is an immune response to foreign substances that come into contact with your body. There are two types of contact dermatitis: irritant and allergic. Irritating substances like acids, detergents, fabric softeners, and soaps cause irritant contact dermatitis. Allergens like antibiotics, fabric and clothing, nail polish, nickel, and poison ivy can cause allergic contact dermatitis. Treatment Options The main treatment for contact dermatitis is to avoid the irritant or allergen. Other treatments depend on what's caused the rash, and options may include: Antihistamines for itch relief Baths Cortisone creams for redness, swelling, and itch Immunosuppressive medications or injections Lotions Moisturizers sruilk / Getty Images Dry skin is the result of your skin losing a lot of water. You may develop dry skin due to environmental factors like low humidity or high heat. You might notice flaky, rough skin or skin that cracks or itches. Some people have dry skin that's painful, stinging, burning, or peeling. Treatment Options Moisturizers are helpful for healing and hydrating your skin. You may also need to treat any underlying conditions, like eczema or psoriasis, that cause dry skin. © Copyright 2007 Robert Byron, All Rights Reserved. Robert Byron/Getty Images Hives (urticaria) are itchy, raised welts that can be red or skin-colored. About 20% of people experience hives at some point in their lives. Many cases occur due to an allergic reaction. Possible triggers include: Foods Insect bites Latex exposure Pet dander Medications Viral infections Treatment Options Hives are usually temporary, but some people can develop chronic hives. A healthcare provider will likely recommend an antihistamine to block or reduce your body's allergic response and ease itching. They may temporarily prescribe corticosteroids to address the inflammation and bring relief in severe cases. Scott Camazine/Getty Images Lupus is an autoimmune disorder, meaning the body attacks its own tissues and organs. Lupus can affect many body parts, so you can develop various symptoms, such as: Abdominal pain Fever Fatigue Hair loss Headaches Sensitivity to the sun Swelling in the legs or around the eyes Some forms of lupus only affect the skin. You may notice the following symptoms: A butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose, which is a classic sign of lupus  Painless sores in the nose and mouth Raised, disc-shaped, discolored patches on sun-exposed areas  Round, scaly rashes anywhere on your body Treatment Options There's no cure for lupus. Treatments like anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressants can manage flares. wisely / Getty Images Psoriasis is a skin condition that speeds up skin cell development. The body makes skin cells quicker than normal by creating them in a few days instead of weeks. Plaque psoriasis, the most common type, produces piles of skin cells on the skin. The plaques look silvery-white and appear most commonly on the elbows, knees, lower back, and scalp. Treatment Options Topical medications and light therapy may treat psoriasis. System-wide drugs, which work throughout the body, can also help. Scott Camazine/Getty Images Ringworm is a fungal skin infection that appears as an itchy, round patch with a clear center on many areas of the skin. Despite its name, ringworm is not actually caused by a worm. Ringworm of the scalp, which is called tinea capitis, can cause discolored, scaly bald spots. Athlete's foot is ringworm of the foot. It can cause peeling, cracking, and blisters. It's called jock itch when ringworm affects the groin. Treatment Options Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection. A healthcare provider will prescribe antifungal drugs to get rid of it. M. Sand, D. Sand, C. Thrandorf, V. Paech, P. Altmeyer, F. G. Bechara/Wikimedia Commons/CC-BY-2.0 Rosacea is a skin condition that causes facial redness and sometimes burning or stinging. Other symptoms may include acne-like skin sores, a red nose, and bloodshot, irritated, and watery eyes. There is no known cause for rosacea. However, people with lighter skin tones, those aged 30 to 50, and women are more likely to develop it. Treatment Options Rosacea is incurable but treatable. Potential treatments include trigger avoidance, antibiotics, laser surgery, or nose tissue surgery. Clsgraphics/Getty Images A painful rash with blisters is a hallmark sign of shingles. A shingles rash wraps like a band across one side of the face or body. Shingles only affect people who have previously had chickenpox. The virus that causes chickenpox, or varicella-zoster virus (VZV), lays dormant in the nerve cells. It later reactivates to cause shingles. The first signs of shingles include skin sensitivity, itching, tingling, or pain. Days later, a rash of tiny fluid-filled blisters develops. People with shingles can give chickenpox to others, usually children, if they've never had the illness. Treatment Options Healthcare providers usually prescribe antiviral drugs to treat shingles. These medications are most effective when you start them as soon as a rash develops. Biophoto Associates/Getty Images Non-melanoma skin cancer frequently affects sun-exposed areas, including the head, face, neck, hands, and arms. There are two types of non-melanoma skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). BCC may look like round, flesh-colored growths, a pearl-like bump, or a pink skin patch. SCC may form a firm red bump, scaly patch, or a sore. Melanoma (shown above) is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. It may cause dark spots, changes in moles, or a bruise that doesn't heal. Treatment Options Treatment for skin cancer can include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. A healthcare provider can recommend a treatment plan based on the type of skin cancer and its severity. Javi Sanz / Getty Images There are different types of vitiligo. People with this skin condition develop white or lighter patches of skin, usually on both sides of the body. Some people have localized vitiligo, in which only a few white spots appear. Others can have it on larger swaths of skin. The cause of vitiligo is not fully understood. Some evidence suggests that vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system attacks pigment-producing cells. Treatment Options Vitiligo doesn't require treatment. However, if you prefer to treat the condition, a healthcare provider may prescribe light therapy and topical creams to ease symptoms. BSIP/UIG/Getty Images Warts are bumpy skin growths that usually appear on the hands. Foot warts on the soles of the feet, known as plantar warts, tend to be hard and painful when you walk on them. Warts are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) and can be contagious. On the surface of warts, tiny black dots that look like seeds, which are dried blood from tiny blood vessels, may appear. Treatment Options Warts often go away on their own, particularly in children. A healthcare provider can remove painful or bothersome warts using peeling medicines, acids, or freezing. There are various causes of skin diseases, which include: Allergens or irritants (e.G., certain metals, poison ivy) Genetics Germs, including bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses Immune system dysfunction To diagnose skin diseases, a healthcare provider typically considers your health history and physical symptoms. Assessing the size, shape, location, and color of bumps, blisters, and rashes can help them pinpoint the exact cause. Other non-skin symptoms may also offer clues. A healthcare provider can sometimes remove a growth or take a skin sample for examination under a microscope. You'll want to see a board-certified dermatologist or healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns about your skin. You'll also want to consult a healthcare provider if you: Experience other symptoms—such as fever, fatigue, or shortness of breath—alongside skin symptoms Have rashes that are painful, blistering, or infected Have skin problems that don't go away or worsen You may not be able to prevent all types of skin diseases. There are still ways to reduce the risk of a skin infection, such as: Keep your nails clean and trimmed Make sure your skin is clean and moisturized to avoid cracks in dry skin Opt for shoes and loose, moisture-wicking clothing at the gym, especially if you're near pools or in locker rooms and showers See a healthcare provider if you develop an infection, such as ringworm. Untreated skin infections can worsen and cause complications. Treat wounds promptly. Wash them, apply an antibiotic cream, cover them with a clean bandage, and change the dressing daily. Wash your hands with soap and water regularly Common skin diseases include acne, atopic dermatitis, cold sores, hives, and psoriasis. These skin concerns share similar symptoms, including burning, itching, and skin discoloration. This makes it difficult to identify skin diseases by images alone. The causes and treatments for these skin diseases vary. It's important to consult a healthcare provider, such as a dermatologist, for diagnosis and treatment.

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