srjmsSRJMSSRJMS2788-9483https://doi.org/10.47310/srjms.2023.v03i02.013Unraveling the Fungal Skin Enigma: Assessing Medical Officers' Awareness of Ringworm in Himachal PradeshManishKumarSankhyanNeetaPraveenKumarShuklaBackground: Fungal skin infections, commonly known as ringworm, pose a significant public health concern, and their accurate diagnosis and management are crucial for preventing complications and reducing morbidity. In the state of Himachal Pradesh, India, the burden of fungal skin infections remains substantial due to various factors, including climate, socioeconomic status, and lack of awareness. However, limited studies have focused on evaluating the knowledge and awareness of medical officers regarding ringworm in this specific region. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 400 medical officers working in Himachal Pradesh between January and March 2023. A structured questionnaire was used to assess their knowledge of fungal skin infection (ringworm), covering aspects such as clinical manifestations, diagnostic criteria, treatment, and preventive measures. The data were analyzed using Epi Info V7 software, and knowledge levels were categorized as very good, good, fair, or poor based on the scoring system. Results: The study revealed that 71.25% of medical officers demonstrated good to very good knowledge regarding ringworm. Specifically, 33% had very good knowledge, 38.25% had good knowledge, 21.25% had fair knowledge, and 7.5% had poor knowledge. However, certain aspects, such as the concept of "Wood's lamp" examination and the zoonotic potential of ringworm, were less well understood by the participants. Conclusion: The findings highlight the need for continuous medical education and targeted training programs to enhance medical officers' proficiency in diagnosing and managing fungal skin infections effectively. Addressing the identified knowledge gaps through practical training sessions and public health campaigns can contribute to better patient outcomes and reduced disease burden.