Tag

Fungal Infection

All articles tagged with #fungal infection

New TM7 fungal outbreak prompts health alert in the U.S.
health4 days ago

New TM7 fungal outbreak prompts health alert in the U.S.

A new fungal infection, Trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype VII (TM7), is spreading in the United States and causing ringworm-like rashes that can be itchy and persistent. Minnesota has reported the largest current cluster, with cases also emerging in other states. TM7 spreads via close skin-to-skin contact, including intimate contact, and most infections respond to oral antifungals such as terbinafine, though some patients may need longer or alternative treatments. Early diagnosis helps ensure proper treatment and reduce transmission; while anyone can be infected, health officials have noted higher prevalence in men who have sex with men.

Candida Auris: Drug-Resistant Fungus Spreads Through Arizona and 27 States
public-health16 days ago

Candida Auris: Drug-Resistant Fungus Spreads Through Arizona and 27 States

A drug-resistant fungal infection caused by Candida auris is spreading across Arizona and other states, with Arizona reporting over 300 cases since 2022 and Pima County cases rising from 31 in 2024 to 59 in 2025. The fungus spreads through contact with affected patients or contaminated surfaces, and its symptoms vary by infection site, making detection challenging. Hand washing is the best prevention, and nationwide data show rising infections in 27 states.

New Rapid Test Promises Faster Detection of Deadly Fungal Infection
health1 year ago

New Rapid Test Promises Faster Detection of Deadly Fungal Infection

Researchers at the University of Exeter have developed a prototype lateral flow test for black fungus disease (mucormycosis), which could be ready for hospital use within three years if it passes regulatory checks. The test is quick, accurate, and could significantly improve early diagnosis and treatment, potentially saving lives and reducing disfigurement caused by this deadly infection, especially in immunocompromised patients. The study validating the test involved patients with various fungal infections and was conducted in partnership with a French hospital.

Valley Fever Surge: A Growing Health Crisis on the West Coast
health1 year ago

Valley Fever Surge: A Growing Health Crisis on the West Coast

California and Arizona are experiencing a significant rise in Valley Fever cases, a lung infection caused by the Coccidioides fungus, with California reporting a 46% increase and Arizona an 11% increase in 2024. The disease, which is not transmissible between humans, can lead to severe lung problems and even fatal complications in some cases. Efforts to develop a human vaccine are underway, with the University of Arizona Valley Fever Center for Excellence receiving $33 million in funding, following successful development of a canine vaccine.

Man Hospitalized After Drinking 'Magic Mushroom' Tea
health1 year ago

Man Hospitalized After Drinking 'Magic Mushroom' Tea

A 30-year-old man in Phoenix, Arizona, experienced severe health complications after injecting a tea made from psilocybin-containing "magic mushrooms" into his bloodstream. This unusual method of administration led to a fungal and bacterial infection, causing multisystem organ failure and acute respiratory syndrome. The patient was treated with antibiotics and antifungal drugs and placed on a ventilator. This case underscores the dangers of using psychedelics in non-prescribed ways, particularly through injection, as the man attempted to self-medicate for bipolar disorder and opioid dependence.

"New Fungal Infection Emerges in China"
health2 years ago

"New Fungal Infection Emerges in China"

Scientists in China have discovered a new drug-resistant fungal pathogen, Rhodosporidiobolus fluvialis, in clinical samples from two patients. The fungus, which thrives at human body temperature, evolved to become more virulent and drug-resistant, raising concerns about the impact of global warming on the emergence of new fungal pathogens. However, experts caution against viewing it as a major threat due to limited evidence of widespread infection.

First U.S. Case of Sexually Transmitted Ringworm Detected
health2 years ago

First U.S. Case of Sexually Transmitted Ringworm Detected

Health officials in New York City have reported the first U.S. case of a rare sexually transmitted ringworm, trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII (TMVII), in a man who had traveled to England, Greece, and California. The infection, which causes a red, itchy rash similar to eczema, took over four months to clear with antifungal treatments. While the public is advised not to be alarmed, doctors are encouraged to ask patients about genital rashes, especially those who are sexually active and have traveled recently.

First U.S. Case of Sexually Transmitted, Drug-Resistant Fungal Infection Detected in NYC
health2 years ago

First U.S. Case of Sexually Transmitted, Drug-Resistant Fungal Infection Detected in NYC

Health experts in NYC have identified the first US case of a sexually transmitted fungal infection, Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII (TMVII), in a man who developed rashes on his penis, buttocks, and limbs. The infection, which has been rising in Europe, particularly among men who have sex with men, responds to standard antifungal treatments but can be confused with eczema, delaying treatment. Another fungal strain, Trichophyton indotineae, widespread in India, has shown resistance to common antifungal medication, posing a greater challenge for dermatologists.

Understanding and Treating Athlete’s Foot
health2 years ago

Understanding and Treating Athlete’s Foot

Athlete's foot, a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, can cause discomfort and is commonly contracted in warm, moist environments like public places or through exposure. Symptoms include scaling, dryness, blistering, redness, burning, or stinging, and can be treated with over-the-counter topical creams containing clotrimazole, tolnaftate, terbinafine hydrochloride, or butenafine hydrochloride. People prone to athlete's foot include athletes, those with weakened immune systems, and individuals who sweat excessively. Preventative measures include avoiding walking barefoot in public places and changing socks and shoes regularly.