Sexually transmitted fungal infection outbreak hits Minnesota

Minnesota health officials are currently investigating an outbreak of a contagious fungal skin infection, raising concerns among medical professionals. The infection is caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype VII (TMVII), a species of fungus known to cause ringworm.

Understanding the Infection

The primary symptom of this infection is the appearance of round, red, irritated rashes across the body. These rashes can be itchy and painful, according to the state’s health alert. Dr. Hayden Andrews, an infectious disease expert at UT Southwestern Medical Center, explained that “TMVII is a specific type of fungus that is part of a larger family that causes the usually benign but irksome conditions such as ringworm, jock itch and athlete’s foot.” The symptoms often resemble those of typical ringworm or jock itch, manifesting as rough, itchy spots that could be mistaken for eczema.

Outbreak Details and Spread

The first confirmed case of TMVII in Minnesota was identified in July 2025. Since then, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has confirmed an additional 13 cases, with another 27 currently suspected. This outbreak follows the first U.S. Case, which was identified in New York in 2024. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has since confirmed cases in multiple cities across the country.

Did You Know? The Minnesota Department of Health established an enhanced surveillance system to identify cases after several individuals sought care and provided information about potentially infected individuals.

TMVII spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact, including sexual activity. It can also spread through contaminated objects and surfaces, such as shared towels at gyms or communal bathing facilities. According to Todd Wills, MD, professor of internal medicine at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, TMVII is the only identified fungal sexually transmitted disease.

Who is at Risk?

Health officials indicate that men who have sex with men and commercial sex workers are currently at the greatest risk. However, the infection can spread from any infected individual. Those with a history of sexually transmitted infections are also considered to be at higher risk.

Expert Insight: The cases in Minnesota, and previously in New York, were spread through sexual contact and genetically identified as TMVII, suggesting the infection is spreading through networks and has the potential to cause outbreaks.

Diagnosis is typically based on the appearance of the rash and its lack of response to over-the-counter antifungal medications. A confirmed diagnosis may require a skin scraping for testing, but treatment is often initiated before results are available.

What Happens Next?

If the outbreak continues to spread, public health officials may implement more aggressive contact tracing and public awareness campaigns. Additional resources will be allocated to testing and treatment facilities. If the infection becomes more widespread, it could lead to increased demand for antifungal medications. However, current medications appear to be effective against TMVII.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the symptoms of TMVII?

The primary symptom is round, red, irritated rashes that spread across the body, which can be itchy and painful.

How does TMVII spread?

TMVII spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact, including sexual activity, and via contaminated objects and surfaces.

Is TMVII treatable?

Yes, TMVII is treatable with antifungal medications, although some cases may require antifungal pills for several weeks.

Given the unique transmission patterns of this fungal infection, what steps can individuals take to protect themselves and prevent further spread?