What is TMVII and how it differs from common ringworm

TMVII refers to Trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype VII, a strain of dermatophyte fungus that infects human skin. Unlike common ringworm or athlete’s foot—often linked to shared surfaces—TMVII has been reported to spread through sexual and close skin-to-skin contact, producing clustered cases in sexual networks.

Timeline and geographic spread

The first U.S. TMVII case was identified in New York City in mid-2024. Minnesota reported its first confirmed case in July 2025 after a patient sought care for a genital rash. Since then, state investigators have confirmed 14 cases and identified dozens more suspected infections in the Twin Cities, totaling more than 30 confirmed or suspected cases.

Because TMVII is not nationally reportable, national surveillance is limited and similar clusters may be underdetected elsewhere.

Symptoms and presentation

Typical signs include round, red, irritated rashes that may appear coin-shaped, raised, or with pustules on the surface. Lesions are commonly itchy or painful and have been reported on the genitals, perianal area, buttocks, thighs, abdomen, arms and legs. These lesions can be mistaken for eczema, psoriasis, or other fungal infections.

Diagnosis and testing

Clinicians typically begin with clinical exam and treatment response. If a suspicious rash does not improve with over-the-counter topical antifungals, providers may collect skin scrapings for fungal culture or molecular testing to identify TMVII. Minnesota health officials ask providers to submit isolates to the state public health laboratory for confirmation to aid outbreak tracking.

Treatment

Management generally requires prescription oral antifungal medication, often for prolonged courses (reports indicate treatment may last up to three months). Current antifungal drugs appear effective when therapy is completed. Because TMVII spreads through close contact, treating sexual partners and avoiding skin-to-skin contact during the treatment period are crucial.

Who appears most at risk

Reported cases have been more frequent among men who have sex with men, people engaged in commercial sex work, and those with histories of sexually transmitted infections. Immunocompromised individuals may be more likely to develop widespread lesions or complications. TMVII spreads in close-contact networks, which can produce clusters.

Prevention: practical steps

  • Avoid sexual and close skin-to-skin contact with new or repeat partners until you and your partner complete treatment and symptoms clear.
  • Inform recent sexual partners if you are diagnosed so they can seek testing and care.
  • Do not share clothing, towels or bedding; wash linens on high heat and clean shared bathing-area surfaces.
  • Seek clinical evaluation for persistent rashes rather than relying on over-the-counter creams alone.

Public health response and surveillance challenges

Minnesota’s Department of Health instituted enhanced surveillance after clinicians reported multiple linked patients. The state requests providers report suspected TMVII cases and submit fungal isolates to the public health laboratory. Because TMVII is not nationally reportable, testing and reporting vary by jurisdiction, making it difficult to determine the outbreak’s true national extent.

Expert quote

“The symptoms are similar to that of the usual cases of ringworm or jock itch and depend on the part of the body that became infected. These usually manifest as round, itchy spots that may have a rough appearance and could be mistaken as eczema.”

— Dr. Hayden Andrews, infectious disease specialist

Implications for Los Angeles

Surveillance and testing

Los Angeles clinicians should be alert for persistent genital or perianal rashes that don’t respond to topical antifungals. Because TMVII is not nationally reportable, local testing and timely reporting to Los Angeles County Department of Public Health can help detect local transmission.

Clinical impact and capacity

Sexual health and dermatology clinics may see increased visits for genital rashes. Providers should be prepared to evaluate, test and, when appropriate, prescribe oral antifungals for extended courses.

Community outreach and education

Public messaging should emphasize prevention steps—avoid skin-to-skin contact when symptomatic, inform partners, avoid sharing linens, and seek care for persistent rashes—while avoiding stigma that might discourage care-seeking.

Economic, service and policy considerations

An increase in local cases could raise demand for testing supplies, antifungal medications, partner services and public health outreach. Local policymakers may consider expanding testing guidelines and reporting protocols to better detect sexually transmitted fungal infections.

Practical advice for Angelenos

If you have a persistent, round, itchy or painful rash—especially in the genital or groin area—see a clinician. Inform recent sexual partners if diagnosed, wash bedding and towels in hot water, and avoid sexual and close skin contact until treatment finishes.

Reporting and sources

This article draws on reporting from Minnesota health officials and national coverage. Key sources include:

For more information or concerns, Los Angeles residents can contact the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health or their primary care clinician or local sexual health clinic for evaluation and testing.