Gray nails are contagious and can be passed on to others.
Gray nails, scientifically called onychomycosis, are caused by fungi such as Trichophyton rubrum and Candida invading the underside of the nail plate. Many people are infected when the fungus from their own ringworm or tinea pedis spreads to the nail plate, and some people are infected by using items such as nail clippers used by people with onychomycosis. People with diabetes, AIDS, and other conditions that affect the immune system are susceptible to ringworm of the nails.
Nail fungus is contagious and therefore needs to be treated promptly to avoid infecting others. It can be treated with topical amorolfine or glacial acetic acid, or with oral antifungal drugs such as terbinafine hydrochloride tablets and itraconazole capsules.
People with onychomycosis should avoid using other people’s shoes, insoles and nail clippers to avoid infecting others. You should consult a dermatologist before using the medication and use the medication under the doctor’s guidance.