New Sexually Transmitted Fungal Infection Hits NYC: How to Protect Yourself

With the emergence of a new, highly contagious fungal infection in New York City, health authorities are sounding the alarm on the importance of preventive measures, particularly in intimate encounters.

Recently, an unidentified man in his 30s from NYC was diagnosed with the first reported case of Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII in the United States, a rare strain of ringworm transmitted through sexual contact. This revelation, detailed in the journal JAMA Dermatology, has raised concerns among health experts.

Seek Medical Attention Promptly

Dr. Avrom S. Caplan, who spearheaded the investigation into the man's case, emphasized the significance of awareness and early detection. He stressed that while evidence suggesting widespread prevalence of the infection is lacking, vigilance is crucial. Individuals experiencing persistent, itchy rashes—particularly in the groin area—that do not respond to conventional treatments are urged to seek medical attention promptly.

This sexually transmitted fungal strain, TMVII, has previously been identified among individuals with connections to sex work in Southeast Asia and has now made its way to Europe. Contrary to earlier beliefs, shaving the groin and intimate regions does not seem to heighten the risk of contracting TMVII.

The case report revealed that the infected man, after traveling to various locations including England, Greece, and California, developed a scaly and uncomfortable rash across his groin, genitalia, legs, arms, and back—a stark reminder of the infection's potential severity. As TMVII rashes can differ from the classic circular pattern associated with ringworm, proper identification and timely treatment are essential in curbing its spread.

Growing Public Health Concern

Given the challenges posed by TMVII's resistance to conventional antifungal therapies, health practitioners emphasize the need for targeted treatment plans to address this growing public health concern.