A deadly fungal infection known as Aspergillosis is on the rise, threatening millions in Europe due to climate change. The disease affects the respiratory system and can be life-threatening for those with pre-existing health conditions like asthma or cystic fibrosis.
According to a study by Manchester University, rising temperatures are priming northern European regions to be attacked by the fungus. The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning about the misuse of hygiene items that could spread the infection.
Symptoms of Aspergillosis include breathlessness, coughs with blood or mucus, wheezing bouts, fever spells, and persistent fatigue. Those with lung complications may notice aggravated symptoms, prompting them to seek medical attention.
Fungal infections are increasing worldwide, with over 150 million severe cases and 1.7 million fatalities annually. Experts say that fungal infections often come as a complication on top of another disease, such as cancer.
Aspergillosis works by releasing tiny spores into the air, which can grow in the lungs of people with weakened immune systems or pre-existing damage. This can lead to severe pneumonia and inflammation.
The issue is not new, but experts warn that habitat changes over the next 50 years will drastically affect the diseases that impact populations. As Professor Adilia Warris from Exeter University’s MRC Centre for Medical Mycology noted, “Fungal infections are very serious and often come as a complication on top of another disease.”
Source: https://www.the-express.com/news/science/172523/killer-fungus-spreading-europe-1-7-million-deaths-annually-strikes