Europe reports rise in dermatophilosis skin infections

Dermatophilosis, colloquially known as ‘rain disease’, is seeing an increase in cases across Europe. Caused by the bacterium Dermatophilus congolensis, the infection primarily affects cattle and other animals but is increasingly being observed in humans.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (Ecdc) has noted a potential shift in transmission dynamics. While the bacteria typically spreads from animals, experts suggest that human-to-human transmission through close physical contact may be occurring, potentially via contaminated surfaces or objects. Recent reports indicate cases have been observed among men who have sex with men, often linked to social venues such as saunas.

As of August 20, 2026, 123 cases have been recorded across 10 European countries, including Austria, Denmark, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. A recent case in Scotland was highlighted by the medical journal BMJ as the first instance of sexually transmitted dermatophilosis in the UK.