Health officials have identified four cases of a sexually transmitted fungal infection in New York City, caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII (TMVII).

The affected individuals, men aged 30 to 39, reported recent sexual contact with other men; one was a sex worker, two had sexual relations with each other, and one had recently traveled to Europe.

Symptoms included rashes on the face, buttocks, or genitals, all of which responded to antifungal treatments.

TMVII infections have previously been reported among men who have sex with men in France and individuals in Southeast Asia.

Healthcare providers are advised to be vigilant for TMVII, which can spread through sexual contact and cause lesions on various body parts.