New Fungal STI Detected in NYC: What You Need to Know About TMVII
There’s a new fungal STI in the U.S. (NYC to be exact). Here’s why you *shouldn’t* freak out.
Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII (AKA TMVII) is a treatable fungal STI that was detected recently in the US. These cases have been on the rise in Europe, but a new study published by the JAMA Dermatology follows the first case of someone in the US.
TMVII is a form of ringworm that causes an itchy rash on or near the genitals. Researchers note that it could be mistaken for eczema, leading providers to become more aware of the infection and its symptoms.
Currently, most cases are among men who have sex with men.
While TMVII is new to the US, and there is the potential for anti-fungal resistance and mistaken symptoms, this doesn’t change how we have sex, but rather, this reinforces the importance of prioritizing sexual health and self-care and communicating with our partners about safer sex.
Here are actions you can take NOW to check-in with your sexual health:
⭐️Talk to your partners about their STI status
⭐️Have a safer sex plan prepared
⭐️Get an updated STI screening
⭐️Talk to your provider about TMVII (especially if it’s something you find yourself ruminating on)
Please note that this isn’t something that’s included in a standard STI testing panel and is relatively new. Checking-in with your body, how you’re feeling, and any potential symptoms that feel “off” can be helpful in navigating potential TMVII cases this summer and beyond.