Minnesota braces for sexually transmitted fungal outbreak linked to TMVII

Minnesota health officials report 14 confirmed and 27 suspected cases of a TMVII fungal infection (Trichophyton mentagrophytes), transmitted mainly through skin-to-skin contact including sexual activity; cases date back to July 2025, with transmission occurring in networks and prompting enhanced surveillance; symptoms resemble ringworm with itchy, spreading rashes; diagnosis is often clinical but may require a skin scrape, and treatment can involve weeks of antifungal pills; officials urge infected people to avoid close contact, not share towels or linens, and seek medical care.