Nation’s ‘largest known outbreak’ of sexually transmitted ringworm fungus in Minnesota

Minnesota health officials say the state is currently dealing with the United States’ “largest known outbreak” of a sexually transmitted fungus that can cause ringworm.

The fungus, known as TMVII, was discovered after the first case of genital ringworm was found in New York City in June 2024, according to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH).

Thirteen months later, a case was confirmed in Minnesota, and since then, more than 30 cases have been reported in the Twin Cities metro area, MDH says.

Health officials say the infection can cause itchy, painful and persistent skin lesions and rashes on the genitals, buttocks, or abdominal areas. Rashes can easily be mistaken for other conditions like eczema, psoriasis or other skin infections. Treatment can take up to 12 weeks.

Anyone who has symptoms is urged to seek medical treatment. If confirmed, patients should avoid sexual or skin-to-skin contact with others, as it spreads through skin-to-skin contact or via fungal spores on surfaces.

Federal health officials have reported sporadic cases of TMVII among men who’ve had sex with men.

MDH has more information available online.