South Beloit High School has issued a health alert after multiple students were diagnosed with impetigo, a contagious bacterial skin infection. The school is increasing cleaning measures, and parents are advised to seek medical attention if their children show symptoms and keep them home from school to prevent further spread.
Participants of a Tough Mudder race at the Sonoma Raceway in California have reported rashes, fevers, muscle pain, and vomiting after completing the muddy obstacle course. Multiple cases of skin infections, including folliculitis, have been confirmed by the Sonoma County Department of Health Services. Some participants suspect that cuts and grazes obtained during the race may have contributed to the infections. Tough Mudder is investigating the incident, but participants are concerned about the lack of testing and possible animal grazing on the race site.
New York City has reported two cases of a drug-resistant and highly contagious skin infection caused by Trichophyton indotineae, a species of dermatophyte mold commonly found in South Asia. The fungus is resistant to first-choice drugs but can be treated with other medications. The threat level is low for most people, but doctors should be aware of this rare condition. The biggest threat is chronic relapse, which is common among patients in other countries. Those who suspect they are infected should seek advice from a clinician instead of using over-the-counter creams or medications obtained through friends and loved ones.
The CDC has warned about a new "highly contagious" skin infection caused by a drug-resistant ringworm fungus called Trichophyton indotineae, which has been detected in the US. The fungus is characterized by widespread, inflamed, pruritic plaques on the body, crural fold, pubic region, adjacent thigh, or face. The CDC advises keeping skin clean and dry, wearing shoes that allow for air-circulation around feet, regularly cleaning and clipping nails, and changing socks and underwear at least once every day to prevent the spread of the fungus.