Climate change may be putting millions more people at risk from infection-causing fungi, which is likely spreading due to warming global temperatures. According to researchers from the University of Manchester, certain fungal pathogens could spread significantly in Europe and beyond within 15 years.
Aspergillus, a fungal mold that thrives in warm, damp climates, is already found worldwide, including in the US. The mold can impact humans, animals, livestock, and plants. Climate change projections indicate a “significant spread” of certain fungal pathogens could occur in Europe, putting more people at risk.
The researchers mapped the effects of rising temperatures on global distribution of three infection-causing fungi: Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, and Aspergillus niger. They found that under different climate scenarios through 2100, these pathogens could spread significantly.
Aspergillus flavus could increase by 16% in Europe, putting 1 million more people at risk of infection. Another fungus, Aspergillus fumigatus, could increase by 77.5%, potentially exposing 9 million people in Europe. This fungus affects the lungs and is a common cause of life-threatening infections in humans.
Fungal spores can be transported through the air, causing infections when inhaled, especially for vulnerable populations and those with weakened immune systems or lung disease. The emergence of fungal pathogens has been linked to warming temperatures, and climate change may exacerbate this trend.
The researchers highlight a concerning lack of research on fungi compared to viruses and parasites, with less than 10% of up to 3.8 million species described. Developing effective interventions for fungal pathogens will be essential to mitigate the consequences of climate change.
Aspergillus mold is “incredibly adaptable” and can survive environmental changes, according to Norman van Rhijn, lead author of the paper. He notes that changes in environmental factors, such as humidity and extreme weather events, will drive fungal adaptation and spread.
The trend is especially concerning due to rising antifungal resistance, driven by fungicides used in agriculture, as well as a severe lack of treatment options for fungal infections. Raising awareness and developing effective interventions for fungal pathogens will be crucial to mitigate the consequences of climate change.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/US/climate-change-leads-spread-infection-causing-fungi-scientists/story?id=122818222