SPKC Warns of Rare Sexually Transmitted Skin Disease

The Latvian Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (SPKC) has issued a warning about dermatophiliosis, a rare bacterial skin infection that is transmitted through sexual contact. The organization calls on both medical professionals and the general public to pay attention to this disease, cases of which have been registered in several European countries since 2025.

Dermatophiliosis is a rare infection that causes skin lesions and is primarily spread through direct sexual contact. Although not widespread, SPKC emphasizes that the appearance of the disease in multiple European countries highlights the need for increased awareness and diagnostic capabilities. The centre urges healthcare workers to be vigilant and consider dermatophiliosis as a possible diagnosis in patients with unusual skin symptoms, especially those linked to sexual contact.

SPKC notes that accurate information about the disease’s spread and symptoms is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. Currently, no specific cases have been reported in Latvia, but the centre encourages medical personnel to report suspicious cases and follow precautionary measures. The public is advised to practice safe sex and consult a doctor if they experience any suspicious skin rashes or other symptoms.

This warning is part of SPKC’s ongoing monitoring of infectious diseases, and the centre promises to provide further information as it becomes available.