Aproko Doctor Raises Alarm Over Sexually Transmissible Fungal Infectio
Nigerian medical content creator, popularly known as Aproko Doctor, has raised awareness about a sexually transmissible fungal infection, warning that the use of condoms may not provide complete protection against it.
In a health awareness video circulating on social media, the doctor highlighted an infection known as Trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype VII (TMVII), a strain of ringworm that can spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact and affect the genital and surrounding areas.
TMVII is a dermatophyte fungal infection that has attracted growing medical attention because of its potential sexual transmission and the discomfort it can cause.
The infection can affect the genital region, groin, buttocks, thighs and, in some cases, the face. Its symptoms include redness, swelling, intense itching, scaly patches, bumps and painful skin inflammation.
According to the doctor, the infection is particularly concerning because it can spread through direct contact with infected skin, including during sexual activity.
Unlike sexually transmitted infections that spread primarily through bodily fluids, TMVII can be transmitted through contact with infected skin surfaces that may not be covered by condoms.
Consequently, condom use does not completely eliminate the risk of infection, particularly when exposed areas of the skin come into contact with an infected person.
The infection may also spread through contaminated personal items such as towels, clothing, bedsheets and grooming equipment.
Although anyone can contract TMVII, reported cases have been predominantly recorded among men who have sex with men.
Medical experts say the condition is treatable with antifungal medications, although treatment may take several weeks or longer, depending on the severity of the infection and the patient’s response to medication.
Oral antifungal drugs, including terbinafine, may be prescribed by medical professionals where necessary.
Health professionals advise people who notice unusual, persistent or painful rashes around their genital areas, groin or buttocks to seek prompt medical assessment rather than dismissing the symptoms or resorting to self-medication.
They also recommend avoiding intimate contact with infected skin until appropriate treatment has been completed and the infection has cleared.
Other preventive measures include maintaining good personal hygiene and avoiding the sharing of towels, underwear, clothing and personal grooming equipment.
While TMVII has been reported in several countries, there is currently insufficient evidence to establish that Nigeria is experiencing a widespread outbreak of the infection.
The warning by Aproko Doctor underscores the importance of sexual health awareness and the need for people to understand that not all sexually transmissible infections spread through bodily fluids.
Health professionals stress that early diagnosis, appropriate treatment and preventive measures are essential to controlling the spread of the infection and reducing the risk of complications.
