Sexually Transmitted Ringworm Outbreak Spreads in Minnesota, US
A sexually transmitted ringworm infection is currently spreading across the state of Minnesota in the United States, marking the largest outbreak of its kind in the country. This fungal infection, which can take months to treat effectively, was first reported in the U.S. in 2024 and has since disproportionately affected men who have sex with men, according to health authorities.
Outbreak Details and Geographic Spread
Since last July, the Minnesota Department of Health has documented more than 30 confirmed or suspected cases of this fungal infection, all concentrated within the Twin Cities metropolitan area. The ringworm, scientifically known as trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype VII or "TMVII," initially emerged in New York City in June 2024. Health officials note that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is aware of other sporadic cases in larger cities across the U.S., including California, where the first patient had traveled before diagnosis.
While TMVII has been circulating in Europe and among individuals who engaged in sex tourism in Southeast Asia for several years, it is not currently considered widespread in the United States. However, the Minnesota outbreak highlights growing concerns about its potential spread.
Symptoms and Health Risks
TMVII is the only known sexually transmitted fungal infection, as confirmed by the Cleveland Clinic. It spreads through skin-to-skin contact or exposure to fungal spores, affecting areas such as the genitals, face, bottom, torso, arms, and legs. The infection often presents as painful and itchy red, coin-like rashes, sometimes accompanied by bumps or pimples.
Infections can vary in severity, leading to complications even with treatment. Patients may experience lesions and open sores that increase the risk of secondary bacterial infections and harmful inflammation. Health officials warned last month that some patients might develop persistent rashes resulting in scarring or worsening infections that require antibiotic treatment.
Diagnosis and Treatment Challenges
Diagnosing TMVII infection requires advanced testing, as most laboratories struggle to distinguish it from two other fungal infections: T. mentagrophytes and T. interdigitale, according to the CDC. Treatment involves weeks or even months of oral medication, and patients are advised to avoid steroid creams, which can exacerbate the infection.
To prevent exposure, individuals should avoid sexual contact if they or their partner has a new rash and refrain from sharing personal items like clothing, towels, bedding, and razors. Items should be washed and dried on high heat, and fungal spores can be eliminated with common disinfectants or strong detergents. Those with rashes should cover them with bandages or clothing and wash hands with soap after touching infected areas to reduce spread.
Public Health Recommendations and Risk Groups
While the overall public health risk is considered low, state health officials identify men who have sex with men, people using anonymous apps, and individuals with a history of sexually transmitted infections as being at higher risk. The University of Minnesota’s Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy emphasizes the importance of awareness and preventive measures to curb the outbreak.
