Tinea capitis is ring worm of the scalp. It cannot be treated with cream once it gets to the hair follicles. The oral is the best bet if you want it to clear up quickly. It is fairly agressive and some Doctors will not recommend it as the first treatment. Other meds are available but will take longer or fail. Request the oral if you want your kid back on the mat, and be prepared it is expensive. Also we have had the best luck with a dermatologist versus general practice Physicians for skin issues. This is their specialty and they do it all day and actually perform culture tests. We have dealt with this stuff for many years and this time of the year it starts to peak and show up. Like Mike said prevention is key, but early detection and proper treatment can turn it around inside of a week. Good Luck!