Susan Thomas, age 10, of Greencastle, Ind., for her question:

WHAT IS ATHLETE'S FOOT?

Athlete's foot is a contagious infection that is a type of ringworm usually found between the toes. It's not actually caused by a worm but is very similar to a fungus. If you have athlete's foot, you're bothered by itching, cracked skin and by a discoloration with ring shaped patches covered with scales.

You may pick up athlete's foot around swimming pools or in gymnasiums. To guard against the disease you should rinse your feet in a one percent solution of sodium hypochlorite when entering and leaving a pool or gym. Also keep your feet clean and dry.

Your doctor or school coach can usually diagnose and prescribe treatment for athlete's foot.