Extremely Contagious Fungal STD Could Be Coming for Michigan

There's a growing concern regarding a rare, but extremely contagious fungal STD making its way into the United States, and already, it's spreading like wildfire in multiple states.

Soon enough, if you're not careful, you could contract this disease, that leaves painful lesions on your genitals and general groin and buttocks.

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It was reported earlier this year that the first case of a fungal STD known as trichophyton mentagrophytes Type VII (TMVII) was found in the state of New York, and has now spread to multiple other states like California.

The first case, a man in his 30s, was diagnosed with this sexually-transmitted fungal disease, similar to ringworm, in early June. And despite ringworm not being that uncommon, and terribly painful, doctors say this version is particularly tough to bare.

The JAMA Dermatology Group says TMVII can be identified as a rash that appears on the genitals, buttocks, and limbs of the body. It mimics symptoms like ringworm, but is more likely confused with eczema.

Doctors say the first identified case was contracted after the man traveled to England, Greece, and then California, where he admitted to having sex with multiple partners, who did not disclose any skin issues.

TMVII cases have reportedly been on the rise in Europe, and in particular, France. The fungal outbreak is believed to have originated in southeast Asia, though, and spread through sex workers who did not disclose any existing conditions.

Because the man traveled to California before coming to New York, it's possible his case of TMVII has also been spread to others in the U.S., and could potentially spread out of control without proper precautions taken.

Doctors say the best way to avoid catching TMVII is to be mindful of your partners, make sure they've disclosed any possible skin conditions, and to generally practice safe sex.

With at least one international airport in Michigan, it's possible cases from Europe could come through its doors, so staying vigilant in the state could hopefully keep it from spreading in our home state.