First Reported Cases of Drug-Resistant Ringworm Found in U.S.

Two unrelated women in New York City developed ringworm infections that did not improve with typical antifungal treatments.
The infections were caused by Trichophyton indotineae, an emerging fungus species first seen in South Asia that is resistant to common antifungal drugs.
Although one patient had no recent travel history, suggesting potential local transmission, the CDC says T. indotineae is not currently widespread in the U.S.
The CDC is advising healthcare providers to consider T. indotineae infection in patients not improving with standard ringworm treatments and to contact health departments for guidance.
Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection that spreads through direct skin contact and is usually treated with antifungal creams or pills.