Disinfecting Against Fungi

Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Sporothrix, and Microsporum canis are all fungi that can cause skin and subcutaneous tissue infections in humans and animals. These fungi have different characteristics, which may make them more or less difficult to kill with disinfectants.

Trichophyton mentagrophytes is a type of dermatophyte fungus that commonly causes ringworm infections in humans and animals. It can be difficult to eradicate because it produces spores that are highly resistant to disinfectants and can survive for long periods in the environment. The fungus can spread from person to person or from animals to humans through direct contact with infected skin, hair, or nails.

Sporothrix is a dimorphic fungus that can cause sporotrichosis, a skin and subcutaneous tissue infection. Sporothrichosis is an emerging cat-transmitted zoonotic concern in Brazil, Chile, and Argentina with potential to spread to the United States. Unlike Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Sporothrix does not produce spores, but it can survive in the environment in a yeast-like form. Disinfectants may be effective against Sporothrix, but it may require longer exposure times or higher concentrations of disinfectant to kill. The fungus spreads through bites and scratches and through direct contact with lesions, droplet exposure, and inhalation.

Microsporum canis is another dermatophyte fungus that can cause ringworm infections in humans and animals. It is generally more susceptible to disinfectants than Trichophyton mentagrophytes but may still be difficult to eradicate in some circumstances. The fungus can spread from person to person or from animals to humans through direct contact with infected skin, hair, or nails.

In general, the efficacy of disinfectants against these fungi may depend on various factors, including the type and concentration of the disinfectant, the duration of exposure, the temperature, and the presence of organic matter. Therefore, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and to wear protective gear, such as gloves and a mask, when using any disinfectant to ensure proper disinfection and to minimize the risk of exposure to the fungi.

Quats (like KennelSol® Disinfectant, and many others) are a good disinfectant choices because of their excellent cleaning ability (cleaning alone will reduce microbial loads by upward of 90%), and their effectiveness on fungi.

Here are some tips to prevent the spread of these fungi:

1. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after touching animals, contaminated objects, or infected skin.
2. Avoid sharing personal items, such as towels, clothing, combs, and hairbrushes, that may have come into contact with infected skin or hair.
3. Clean and disinfect any surfaces or objects that may have come into contact with the fungi, such as floors, furniture, and equipment. Use an EPA-registered disinfectant with antifungal properties at proper use dilutions.
4. Wear protective gear, such as gloves and a mask, when handling contaminated objects or infected animals.
5. Avoid walking barefoot in public areas, such as locker rooms and swimming pools, where the fungi may be present.
6. Seek medical attention from a healthcare professional if you suspect that you or your pet may have a fungal infection, such as ringworm or sporotrichosis.
7. Treat infected animals promptly and follow good hygiene practices when handling them.

By following these measures, you can reduce the risk of spreading Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Sporothrix, or Microsporum canis and help protect yourself and others from fungal infections.