“We don’t even know whether only steroid use is the reason for its resistance or if it inherently does not respond to itraconazole.

Practical challenges include identifying the infection through routine tests and the necessity of genomic sequencing, which is only available in academic settings.

”Patients are also encouraged to adhere strictly to the prescribed treatment regimen, even if symptoms improve before the medication course is completed.

This adherence is crucial in preventing the recurrence of the infection and reducing the risk of developing further resistance.

Healthcare professionals strongly advise against the unsupervised use of combination creams containing steroids and antifungals, as these can contribute to drug resistance and worsen infections.

Public awareness campaigns are crucial to inform the public about the risks of self-medication and the importance of consulting healthcare professionals for skin conditions.

Of course, the bottom line is that maintaining good hygiene practices is key to preventing the spread of these infections.

Keeping the skin dry and clean is essential since moisture creates an ideal environment for fungal growth.

Regularly washing and drying areas prone to sweating, such as the feet, groin, and armpits, can help reduce this risk.

Avoiding sharing of personal items like towels, clothing, and grooming tools is another important preventive measure.

These items can carry fungal spores and spread the infection.

Wearing breathable clothing, particularly loose-fitting fabrics like cotton, helps keep the skin dry and reduces sweating.

In communal environments such as locker rooms and showers, it’s important to wear sandals to prevent picking up fungi from the floor.

Proper footwear, along with regular cleaning of bed linens, towels, and clothing in hot water, can kill fungal spores and reduce the risk of infection.

**Jyothi Jayaraman**, a senior member of the special interest group IADVL Dermatophytosis, and Assistant Professor in the Department of Dermatology, Father Muller Medical College, Mangalore, advises: “Simple measures such as regular washing of personal items and maintaining personal hygiene can greatly reduce the spread of these infections.

Educating the public about these practices is essential.

”Educating oneself about the signs and symptoms of fungal infections can also help in seeking early treatment.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle by boosting the immune system through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep is also beneficial.

By incorporating these practical tips into daily routines, we can significantly reduce the incidence and spread of drug-resistant fungal infections.

Continuous research is essential to understand the genetic basis of resistance in **Trichophyton indotineae** and to develop new treatment strategies.

Collaborative efforts between dermatologists, researchers, and public health officials are necessary to tackle this growing threat.

Indians, living in a land that has a tropical climate and high population density, are particularly vulnerable to fungal infections.

The prevalence of **Trichophyton indotineae** is a growing public health concern, especially in rural areas where access to healthcare is limited.

Public health initiatives must focus on improving diagnostic facilities and ensuring the availability of effective treatments.

**Dr.

Verma** adds, “Dermatophytosis has been a rising challenge in India, only now gaining the spotlight, which is regrettable.

More studies need to be done, and we need to call it based on the species it represents and not assign it to a particular country.

” Through prudent medication use, public education, good hygiene practices, and ongoing research, we can combat these infections and improve patient outcomes.

Healthcare providers and the public must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing this emerging threat.