First UK case of sexually transmitted ‘rain rot’ infection detected

The first UK case of a rare bacterial skin infection known as “rain rot” has been confirmed amid an increase in cases across Europe.

Dermatophilosis, caused by the bacterium Dermatophilus congolensis, usually affects animals including horses, cattle and sheep. Human infections have traditionally been associated with contact with infected livestock or wildlife.

However, recent European cases have been linked to person-to-person transmission through sexual contact, particularly among gay and bisexual men. Cases have also been connected to contact sports and martial arts.

The infection can cause itchy or painful pus-filled spots and crusted skin lesions, including on the face, groin and genitals. It can usually be treated with antibiotics.

Around 70 cases had been confirmed across six European countries by mid-June, with further infections subsequently reported. Health authorities currently consider the risk to the wider public to be low but have urged clinicians to remain alert to possible cases.

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