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Sporothrix brasiliensis Outbreak Widens in South America and Raises U.S. Concerns

Researchers found the fungus' DNA inside wild mammals, birds and reptiles, which could create hidden reservoirs that make the outbreak harder to stop.

Two cats tussling. An orange striped cat with a white belly is on it's back on the ground, cracked pavement with grass growing through the cracks, while a multi-colored tabby pounces on the cat on the ground. Both cats have their ears back and appear to snarling. A fungus called Sporothrix brasiliensis spreads through cat bites and scratches, such as ones gotten through fighting.

Overview

  • Health officials say a large, ongoing outbreak of Sporothrix brasiliensis that began in Brazil has sickened thousands of cats and infected thousands of people and hundreds of dogs across South America.
  • A recent study detected Sporothrix DNA in internal organs of road‑killed wild mammals, birds and reptiles, suggesting the fungus may now circulate beyond domestic animals into wildlife.
  • The fungus spreads easily from cats to other animals and humans through scratches, bites, grooming and respiratory secretions, and infections in cats can become fatal if untreated.
  • Detection is difficult because there is no commercial test and U.S. import rules only require a vet to declare animals appear healthy, which experts say makes border screening likely to miss cases.
  • Officials warn the fungus is likely to reach the United States and urge veterinarians and public health labs to report suspect cases and to use strict cleaning, PPE and bleach or ethanol to kill the pathogen on surfaces.