Fungal infection spread through sexual contact reported in Minnesota

Contagious Fungal Skin Infection Alert in Minnesota

Minnesota health officials have issued a warning about an outbreak of a contagious fungal skin infection. This infection stems from Trichophyton genotype VII (TMVII), the same kind of fungus that causes ringworm.

The primary symptom is a round, red, inflamed rash that can be itchy and painful, spreading across the body, according to a health alert from the state.

“TMVII is a particular type of fungus in a larger family responsible for generally minor, yet bothersome conditions like ringworm, jock itch, and athlete’s foot,” noted Dr. Hayden Andrews, an infectious disease expert. He stated that symptoms often resemble those of typical ringworm or jock itch, and can sometimes be mistaken for eczema due to their rough look.

As for the data, Minnesota’s Department of Health (MDH) confirmed the first TMVII case in July 2025. Since then, officials have identified 13 additional cases and another 27 suspected cases in the area.

The first instance of TMVII in the U.S. was recorded in New York in 2024, with notable cases now confirmed in various American cities.

MDH has established enhanced surveillance following reports from individuals seeking treatment, enabling the identification of those infected with this fungus.

“This indicates that the virus might be spreading within networks, possibly leading to an outbreak,” MDH stated.

TMVII is transmitted through direct skin contact, which can occur during sexual activity. It’s also possible for fungal spores to spread via contaminated items and surfaces, like shared gym towels or walking barefoot in public showers.

Dr. Todd Wills from the University of South Florida emphasized that TMVII is the only confirmed fungal sexually transmitted disease (STD). Currently, those at higher risk include men who have sex with men and sex workers; however, any infected person can pass it on.

Individuals with prior sexually transmitted infections are at an increased risk as well.

“Diagnosis usually relies on the appearance of the rash and the lack of response to common antifungal treatments,” Wills explained. He added that testing might involve taking a sample of the rash, but treatment typically starts before those results come back.

Dr. Andrews highlighted that Minnesota’s outbreak is unique in the transmission method. “The cases here, as well as the previous ones in New York, were spread through sexual contact and genetically identified as TMVII. This points to potential for network-based spread,” he said.

For individuals with weakened immune systems, the lesions may become more serious and widespread. If untreated, some rashes could result in scarring or escalate the infection.

Dr. Wills compared routine cases of ringworm or athlete’s foot, which usually clear up with over-the-counter antifungals, to TMVII cases. He noted that TMVII often requires stronger medication and recovery can take weeks. Fortunately, current antifungal treatments seem effective against TMVII.

Health experts encourage anyone with symptoms to avoid close skin-to-skin contact and sharing personal items like towels to minimize the risk of spreading the infection. All linens and towels at home should be washed thoroughly and bathing areas should be cleaned regularly.