Deadly Fungal Infections on the Rise as Climate Heats Up

A recent study warns that certain types of fungi, specifically Aspergillus(deadly fungal infections), are expanding their range due to the warming climate, posing significant threats to human health. Aspergillosis, a life-threatening disease primarily affecting the lungs, has high mortality rates ranging from 20% to 40%.

The fungus grows like small filaments in soils worldwide, releasing tiny spores that spread through the air. Humans inhale these spores daily, but most people’s immune systems can clear them. However, individuals with lung conditions, compromised immune systems, or severe flu/Covid-19 are more susceptible.

“Fungi are relatively under-researched compared to viruses and parasites, but these maps show that fungal pathogens will likely impact most areas of the world in the future,” said Norman van Rijn, a climate change and infectious diseases researcher at the University of Manchester.

Aspergillus species are predicted to push into new parts of North America, Europe, China, and Russia as the climate crisis intensifies. The study found that Aspergillus flavus could increase its spread by 16% if humans continue burning large amounts of fossil fuels, potentially threatening food security.

Key Findings:

• Aspergillus fumigatus: predicted to spread northwards toward the North Pole, potentially exposing 9 million people in Europe, with a 77.5% increase in spread by 2100.
• Fungal Infections: kill an estimated 2.5 million people annually, with some reports suggesting the number could be higher due to lack of data.
• Antifungal Resistance: fungal pathogens are becoming increasingly resistant to treatment, with only four classes of antifungal medicines available.

Experts emphasize the need for more research and attention to fungal infections, which can have devastating impacts on human health. “Any of us in the future might be affected,” said Elaine Bignell, co-director of the MRC Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Exeter. As climate change continues to unfold, understanding and addressing the spread of fungal infections will be crucial for public health.