CDC reports rise in rare genital fungus cases linked to sexual contact in New York City

The CDC has reported a rise in cases of a rare genital fungus called Trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype VII (TMVII) in New York City. The first U.S. case was recorded in June 2024, with four additional infections identified between April and June. All diagnosed individuals were men who have sex with men, indicating the fungus spreads through sexual contact. Symptoms include an itchy, red rash and flaky skin, resembling ringworm but without a worm. TMVII can be treated with over-the-counter creams, and all diagnosed patients responded well to treatment. The CDC advises those with symptoms to avoid sexual contact and to refrain from sharing personal items until healed.