Emerging Sexually Transmitted Fungal Infection: TMVII Outbreak in Minnesota and Beyond

Health officials are investigating an outbreak of a sexually transmitted fungal infection, Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII (TMVII), across the United States, with Minnesota currently considered the epicenter. This emerging infection, a form of ringworm, is causing concern due to its unusual transmission route and potential for persistent symptoms.

What is TMVII?

TMVII is a dermatophyte, a type of fungus that causes superficial skin infections like ringworm, athlete’s foot, and jock itch. However, unlike typical fungal skin infections, TMVII has been identified as a sexually transmitted disease (STD) [1]. The Minnesota Department of Health states it is the only known fungal-based STD [1].

Symptoms of TMVII

The primary symptom of TMVII infection is the appearance of a rash, often described as round, coin-like, red, and irritated [3]. These rashes can appear on the arms, buttocks, trunk, genitals, and legs [3]. The rash may be accompanied by itching, pain, and, if left untreated, can potentially lead to scarring or secondary infections [1].

Transmission and Risk Factors

TMVII spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact [3]. The fungus can likewise spread through contact with contaminated surfaces or shared personal items like towels [3].

Currently, the outbreak appears to be most prevalent among men who have sex with men [1] and those involved in the sex trade [3], but anyone who comes into contact with an infected individual is at risk.

Outbreak Timeline and Current Status

The first reported case of TMVII in the United States was identified in New York City in 2024 [1]. Minnesota confirmed its first case in July 2025 [3], [4]. As of February 2026, Minnesota has identified more than 30 confirmed or suspected cases, primarily in the Twin Cities metro area, with scattered cases reported in other U.S. Cities [1].

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis typically involves a clinical evaluation of the skin rash and may be confirmed through a skin scraping and laboratory analysis [3]. However, treatment is often initiated before definitive results are available to prevent further transmission.

TMVII is treatable with oral antifungal medications, as topical creams are generally ineffective [1]. Treatment duration can last up to three months [1].

Prevention and Recommendations

Health officials recommend the following to prevent the spread of TMVII:

• Avoid sharing towels, bedding, or other personal items.
• Practice thorough hygiene, especially in shared spaces like gyms and public showers.
• Individuals with symptoms should abstain from sexual contact or any direct skin-to-skin contact until completing treatment.
• Inform sexual partners to allow for testing and treatment.

Reporting and Surveillance

The Minnesota Department of Health urges healthcare professionals to report suspected cases of TMVII for laboratory analysis [4]. Enhanced surveillance systems are in place to monitor the spread of the infection and inform public health interventions.

For more information, visit the Minnesota Department of Health website: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/tmvii/index.html