A sexually transmitted skin infection, colloquially known as 'rain rot,' has been detected in the United Kingdom for the first time, coinciding with a notable increase in cases across Europe. The bacterial infection, medically identified as dermatophilosis, manifests as pus-filled, scaly, and crusted skin lesions that can appear on the genitals, face, and other parts of the body.
While dermatophilosis is primarily known to spread between animals, recent outbreaks in Europe suggest a potential for human-to-human transmission through close physical contact. Clusters of the infection have been reported in France, Germany, Norway, and Spain during the summer months, with an 80% surge in cases over two months. As of August 20, Europe had recorded 126 cases, a rise from 70 in mid-June.
The single case identified in the UK was reported in Scotland. Health officials have linked this instance to attendance at a venue where sexual activity occurs, such as a sauna. The majority of reported cases across Europe have been among men who have sex with men, according to a report in the British Medical Journal. Other reported cases have been associated with contact sports, martial arts, and travel to Southeast Asia.
Dermatophilosis is caused by a bacterium commonly found in livestock such as cattle and horses. The term 'rain rot' is attributed to the bacterium's increased transmissibility in moist and humid conditions. Although human infections are rare, the recent trend has led experts to suspect a shift in transmission patterns, with human-to-human spread possible through close skin-to-skin contact, particularly in damp environments. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has also noted that indirect transmission via shared surfaces cannot be entirely ruled out.
The ECDC stated that most European cases presented with mild skin infections affecting multiple body areas, including the genitals, thighs, groin, and beard region. Most patients have reportedly recovered with antibiotic treatment and without significant complications. The overall risk to the general population is considered very low, but the ECDC advises that individuals participating in close-contact sports or activities, especially in humid settings or where shared surfaces and skin lesions are present, might face an elevated exposure risk, although current evidence is limited.
A spokesperson for the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) emphasized the need for healthcare professionals to be aware of the infection, particularly in men who have sex with men presenting with relevant symptoms. This awareness is deemed especially crucial for individuals who have recently traveled to countries with reported infection clusters or have visited venues where sex on the premises occurs.