State confirms outbreak of sexually transmitted fungal infection, experts urge caution
TMVII spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact with the fungus, including sexual activity, according to the alert.
Fungal spores can also spread via contaminated objects and surfaces, such as sharing towels at the gym or walking around barefoot in communal bathing facilities.
Todd Wills, MD, professor of internal medicine at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, noted that TMVII is the only identified fungal sexually transmitted disease.
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“The populations currently at greatest risk are men who have sex with men and commercial sex workers; however, the infection can be spread from any infected individual,” he told Fox News Digital.
Those with a history of sexually transmitted infections are also at higher risk.
The primary symptom is round, red, irritated rashes that spread across the body, which can be itchy and painful, according to the state’s health alert. (iStock)
“Diagnosis is often made based on the appearance of the rash and its lack of responsiveness to typical over-the-counter antifungal medications,” Wills said. “A confirmed diagnosis may require a sample of the rash via skin scraping, although treatment is often initiated before results of these tests are available.”
The Minnesota outbreak is unique not in the type of infection, but in the way it is spread, according to Andrews.
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“The cases in Minnesota, and previously in New York in 2024, were spread by sexual contact and genetically found to be TMVII. This suggests it is spreading in networks and thus can cause outbreaks,” he said.
The lesions can be more widespread and serious in people who are immunocompromised, Andrews noted. If left treated, some rashes may lead to scarring or worsening infections.
The lesions can be more widespread and serious in people who are immunocompromised, one doctor warned. (iStock)
“While routine cases of ringworm or athlete’s foot typically resolve with antifungal creams in a few days, we are finding that TMVII often requires antifungal pills, sometimes for several weeks for complete resolution,” the doctor said. “Fortunately, our current antifungal medications appear to work against TMVII.”
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To help decrease the spread, the doctors agreed that people with symptoms should avoid close, skin-to-skin contact and refrain from sharing personal items, like towels and linens.
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“Similarly, all linens and towels in the household should be thoroughly washed on high heat and bathing areas sanitized,” Andrews added.
Anyone with symptoms should seek immediate medical care, health officials advised. Minnesota healthcare providers are urged to report any suspected cases for lab testing.
Article source: https://www.foxnews.com/health/state-confirms-outbreak-sexually-transmitted-fungal-infection-experts-urge-caution