ECDC rapid risk assessment
Dermatophilosis is a bacterial skin disease caused by Dermatophilus congolensis, a bacterium reported primarily in cattle, but also affecting other domestic and wild animals. So far, human infections have only been reported sporadically.
Several clusters of genetically and epidemiologically linked cases predominantly affecting gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men have been detected in four EU countries during the past six months. Cases have also been reported in Norway among individuals practicing martial arts, in 2025 and 2026. This indicates a possible shift in transmission dynamics, with human-to-human transmission through close physical contact being the most likely route. Indirect transmission via contaminated surfaces and fomites cannot be excluded at this stage.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) released a rapid risk assessment of the current situation as Dermatophilus congolensis infection is an unusual occurrence in humans. The target audience is public health authorities, community organisations and healthcare workers.
Read more and download the rapid risk assessment here.
Source : ECDC
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