Doctors in France and Spain are investigating clusters of dermatophilosis spreading among men who have sex with men. These clusters are reminiscent of the early stages of the 2022 mpox outbreak. The infection typically affects cattle, sheep, goats, and horses, primarily in tropical and subtropical climates. Infections in humans have generally occurred among individuals who have direct contact with animals and are generally mild although can become more severe.
The World Health Organization is aware of the cases in Europe but currently considers the risk of dermatophilosis infections rising to epidemic levels to be low. However, the agency said the cases highlight the importance of making clinicians in sexual health care settings aware of emerging infections and ensuring appropriate testing to determine the cause of unexplained skin lesions.
