A dangerous fungus capable of causing life-threatening
infections in humans, livestock, and crops is poised to spread to new regions
worldwide due to climate change, according to a recent study by researchers at
the University of Manchester. The findings highlight growing concerns about the
underappreciated threat of fungal diseases in a warming world.
The Rising Threat of Aspergillus
Aspergillus, a common group of fungi found globally in soil and decaying
matter, releases airborne spores that can trigger severe lung infections known
as aspergillosis. While healthy individuals often clear these spores without
issue, the fungus poses grave risks to people with weakened immune systems,
asthma, or chronic lung diseases like COPD. Once established, the infection has
a mortality rate of 20–40% and is notoriously difficult to diagnose due to
symptoms resembling common illnesses, such as fever and cough.
“When the immune system can’t fight the spores, the fungus
starts to grow—essentially eating you from the inside out,” explained Norman
van Rijn, a climate change and infectious disease researcher at the University
of Manchester and co-author of the study, which is currently undergoing peer
review.
Climate Change as a Catalyst
Using climate models, the team projected how rising global temperatures could
allow Aspergillus species to colonize new areas by 2100. Under high-emissions
scenarios, regions including North America, Europe, China, and Russia may face
expanded fungal threats. Of particular concern is Aspergillus flavus,
a heat-tolerant species resistant to antifungal drugs. The study estimates its
range could grow by 16%, endangering both human health and food security, as it
also infects crops like corn and peanuts.
Fungal Infections: A Silent Crisis
Fungal diseases already claim an estimated 2.5 million lives annually, though
experts warn underreporting could mean even higher tolls. Despite this,
research and public awareness lag far behind efforts targeting viruses or
bacteria. Van Rijn likened the urgency to HBO’s The Last of Us—a
dystopian series where a fungal pandemic devastates humanity—but stressed
real-world risks demand proactive solutions.
“Fungi are under-researched, yet they’re evolving and
spreading in ways we don’t fully understand,” he said. “Climate change isn’t
just melting ice caps—it’s altering ecosystems in ways that let pathogens
thrive.”
The study underscores the need for improved surveillance, faster diagnostics,
and new antifungal treatments. It also stresses the broader imperative to curb
fossil fuel emissions and limit global warming.
“We’re in a race against time,” van Rijn added. “Addressing
climate change isn’t just about saving the planet—it’s about protecting
ourselves from invisible threats already at our doorstep.”
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Disclaimer:
The health tips shared on
this blog are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for
professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider
before making changes to your health routine. Content is based on publicly
available sources and edited for clarity.
