New fungal STI TMVII emerges in US, spreading through skin-to-skin contact
Health officials are monitoring an emerging fungal infection, TMVII (Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII), spread via direct skin-to-skin contact during sex and through contaminated items. It causes ringworm-like, itchy lesions that can appear on genitals, buttocks, and other areas. First identified in 2024, Minnesota reports the largest US cluster with 30+ suspected or confirmed cases. Treatment is usually weeks-long oral antifungals, and patients should avoid contact with others, inform partners, and launder clothes and bedding at high temperatures to reduce transmission.
