Latest news with #Aspergillosis
Time of India
4 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Global pandemic warning: Aspergillus deadly fungus mirrors HBO's ‘The Last of Us'
Aspergillus fungus (Image source: Wikipedia) As climate change accelerates, it is not only reshaping our weather patterns and ecosystems but also silently altering the spread of dangerous pathogens. Among these, Aspergillus—a common yet potentially deadly fungus—is gaining new ground. Once confined primarily to warmer regions, this airborne threat is now forecasted to expand its reach into parts of North America, Europe, China, and Russia. A recent study by researchers at the University of Manchester employed advanced climate modeling to predict how Aspergillus will migrate in response to rising temperatures, warning that millions more people may be at risk of infection by 2100. While Aspergillus is a familiar organism to scientists and farmers, its ability to cause invasive aspergillosis—a severe lung infection—makes it a serious public health concern. The new findings arrive amid a global rise in fungal infections, which already claim an estimated 2.5 million lives annually. These numbers may be underreported due to the difficulty in diagnosis and the limited global surveillance of fungal diseases. This article explores the science behind Aspergillus, the impact of climate change on its distribution, and the urgent need for enhanced monitoring and medical preparedness. What is Aspergillus? Understanding the fungus among us Aspergillus is a genus of over 300 mold species that thrive in various environments—soil, plant matter, decaying leaves, compost, and even indoor dust. Although many species are harmless and some are even useful in industrial fermentation (like soy sauce or citric acid production), several are pathogenic to humans and animals. Among the most concerning are: Aspergillus fumigatus : The most common cause of aspergillosis, particularly dangerous for immunocompromised individuals. Aspergillus flavus : Known for producing aflatoxins, potent carcinogens that contaminate crops like maize and peanuts. Aspergillus niger : Common in indoor environments and capable of causing ear infections and respiratory issues. These fungi reproduce by releasing microscopic spores (conidia) into the air. While healthy individuals can inhale these spores with little consequence, vulnerable populations—including those with asthma, COPD, cancer, organ transplants, or HIV—face a much higher risk of serious complications. Aspergillosis explained: The deadly lung infection you've probably never heard of Aspergillosis refers to a group of diseases caused by Aspergillus spores that take root in the lungs and sometimes spread to other parts of the body. The most severe form, invasive aspergillosis, can be fatal if not treated promptly. Types of Aspergillosis: Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) : A hypersensitive reaction often seen in asthma or cystic fibrosis patients. Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) : Long-term infection leading to lung cavities and respiratory decline. Invasive aspergillosis : A fast-spreading, often deadly condition in immunocompromised individuals. Symptoms include: Persistent cough Shortness of breath Fever Chest pain Hemoptysis (coughing up blood) W hat makes aspergillosis particularly dangerous is the difficulty in diagnosis. Its symptoms often mimic other respiratory illnesses, delaying appropriate treatment. Moreover, treatment options are limited, with only four primary classes of antifungal drugs available—azole resistance among Aspergillus species is growing, making infections harder to treat. How climate change is driving the spread of Aspergillus The University of Manchester study underscores a chilling reality: as global temperatures climb, so does the habitat range of heat-tolerant fungi. Using a combination of climate simulation models and fungal biology data, researchers evaluated how Aspergillus species will respond to two climate scenarios—moderate emissions and high fossil fuel use. Key findings: Aspergillus flavus, a heat-loving fungus, is projected to expand its global range by 16% under high-emission scenarios. Aspergillus fumigatus, traditionally found in temperate regions, may shift its range northward, with a 77.5% increase in its potential habitat by 2100. This expansion could put 9 million more people in Europe at increased risk. Cooler regions such as northern China, Russia, and parts of Canada could soon become hotspots for fungal colonization. Conversely, sub-Saharan Africa, already experiencing extreme temperatures, might become too hot for certain Aspergillus strains, leading to unexpected shifts in ecological balance. Why heat makes fungi stronger Fungi generally struggle to thrive at the high internal temperatures of mammals. However, as average global temperatures rise, fungi are slowly adapting to heat stress. This means they are more likely to survive—and flourish—inside the human body. This heat-hardening process could lead to the emergence of new, more virulent fungal strains capable of overcoming our natural defenses. In addition to temperature changes, climate-linked weather events like hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods play a critical role in dispersing fungal spores. The 2011 tornado in Joplin, Missouri, for example, led to a rare and deadly fungal outbreak. As these extreme weather events become more frequent, the spread of Aspergillus spores across long distances will likely increase, enhancing their potential to infect new populations. Public health implications: Who is at risk? Populations most vulnerable to the threat of Aspergillus expansion include: Immunocompromised individuals (e.g., cancer, HIV, or transplant patients) Elderly populations People with respiratory conditions such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, or COPD Rural populations with increased exposure to airborne spores from agriculture In regions projected to become new habitats for Aspergillus, public health systems may not be adequately prepared to diagnose or treat fungal diseases. There's an urgent need for greater awareness, improved diagnostic tools, and antifungal research funding to meet this looming threat. Medical challenges: Drug resistance and diagnostic gaps One of the most alarming aspects of the fungal threat is growing antifungal resistance. Azoles, the most commonly used antifungal drugs, are becoming less effective due to overuse in both medicine and agriculture. Some Aspergillus strains now exhibit multi-drug resistance, rendering current treatments ineffective and complicating recovery. Further compounding the crisis is the lack of rapid diagnostic tests. In many healthcare settings, fungal infections are misdiagnosed or only detected at advanced stages. Unlike bacteria or viruses, fungal pathogens are harder to culture and require specialized labs to identify accurately. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
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First Post
5 days ago
- Health
- First Post
Fungi that could ‘eat you from inside out' likely to spread amid warming planet
Scientists from Manchester University have projected that Aspergillus, a common group of fungi present globally, could spread to new regions as the world heats up. These moulds can cause aspergillosis, a lung disease that could spread to other organs, including the brain read more Aspergillus, a type of fungi, is seen in this handout image from the Centres for Disease Control, October 13, 2012. File Photo/Reuters A deadly fungus that causes millions of deaths annually will spread globally as temperatures soar, as per new research. The Aspergillus family will proliferate to new regions, risking infections to millions of people. Scientists from Manchester University published these findings in a study this month. The report puts focus on the deadly moulds living among us that could trigger the next disease outbreak. Let's take a closer look. What is Aspergillus? Aspergillus is a group of fungi present globally that can cause aspergillosis, a lung disease that could spread to other organs including the brain. As Financial Times (FT) noted, some species of Aspergillus can be used for industrial chemistry and the fermentation of soy and sake. However, the group of fungi can also be dangerous to health. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Aspergillus releases a huge amount of tiny spores into the air. Humans inhale these spores, however, most do not get health issues. Although those with a compromised immune system are at an increased risk. The immune system of people who have asthma, cystic fibrosis, cancer or had severe flu or Covid-19 is unable to clear the spores. If the body fails to get rid of these spores, the fungus 'starts to grow and basically kind of eat you from the inside out, saying it really bluntly,' Norman van Rijn, one of the study's authors and a climate change and infectious diseases researcher at the University of Manchester, told CNN. He pointed out that the mortality rates of Aspergillosis are around 20 per cent to 40 per cent. Its detection is also not easy, as patients usually have symptoms like fevers and coughs, which are common to many illnesses. The video game-turned-TV show The Last of Us portrays a fictional brain-altering fungus that wipes out much of humanity. However, the real danger caused by fungal pathogens is still not well-known. Fungi is believed to be behind five per cent of all deaths globally. ALSO READ: Explained: Candida auris, the deadly fungus spreading across the US STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD What did the study find? Researchers found that some Aspergillus species can spread to new parts of North America, Europe, China, Russia, and Asia as the climate becomes warmer. The study, funded by the charitable foundation the Wellcome Trust, used computer simulations and forecasts to map the potential future proliferation of Aspergillus strains – A. flavus, A. fumigatus and A. niger. '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,' van Rijn told CNN. Aspergillus fumigatus could spread northwards toward the North Pole as global temperatures rise, CNN reported, citing the study. It could spread to an additional 77.5 per cent by 2100, the study found, potentially risking nine million (90 lakh) people in Europe. Aspergillus fumigatus could spread to the North Pole. Wikimedia Commons The fungi species can increase 'astonishingly quickly' at high temperatures in compost where it lives, Professor Elaine Bignell, co-director at the MRC Centre for Medical Mycology at Exeter university, told FT. 'Its lifestyle in the natural environment may have provided A. fumigatus with the fitness advantage needed to colonise human lungs,' Bignell said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Aspergillus flavus, which lives on many crops, could spread to an additional 16 per cent of territory by 2100, the researchers forecast. In 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) included Aspergillus flavus in its critical group of fungal pathogens due to its impact on public health and risk of antifungal resistance. As fungal pathogens become more resistant to treatment, climate change could further drive the spread of Aspergillus to new areas. Underlining the importance of the research, Bignell told CNN that the new Aspergillus study 'rightfully shines a light on the threat of fungi that dwell in our natural environment and how under-prepared we are to cope with shifts in their prevalence.' However, she said that there are still many uncertainties and more research needs to be done. With inputs from agencies
NDTV
5 days ago
- Health
- NDTV
Aspergillus: The Fungi That Can Eat Humans 'Inside Out', Spark A Pandemic
As global temperatures continue to rise, Aspergillus, an infection-causing fungi responsible for millions of deaths a year, could significantly expand to new regions, a study has warned. Aspergillus species are "widespread environmental saprotrophs" that can cause severe infections in humans, livestock, and plants, the research conducted by a team of scientists from Manchester University said. It was published earlier this month and is currently being peer-reviewed, CNN reported. Aspergillus is a common group of fungi found across the world. It causes aspergillosis, a life-threatening disease, which primarily affects the lungs in humans. To map the potential spread of Aspergillus in the future, the researchers used various simulations and forecasts. As part of the study, the scientists found there were specific Aspergillus species that will expand in the future as the climate crisis intensifies. This means these will next reach new regions in North America, Europe, China and Russia. Norman van Rijn, one of the authors of the study, suggests that Fungi are "under-researched" when compared to viruses and parasites. These are expected to impact major areas of the world in the coming time, he said. Citing the famous HBO series, The Last Of Us, where most of the world's population turned into violent monsters due to an infectious mutant fungus, Mr Rijn hopes it will raise the profile of fungal infections in real life. Mr Rijn serves as a climate change and infectious diseases researcher at the University of Manchester. On average, an estimated 2.5 million people are killed every year by fungal infections. The lack of data means the number could get higher. Like several other fungi, Aspergillus grow like small filaments in soils. They go on to release a large amount of tiny spores that further spread via air. These get inhaled by humans on a daily basis. Most people are not expected to experience any health concerns, for their immune system is capable enough to clear them. But it's not the same for those dealing with asthma, cystic fibrosis or COPD. Also in danger are those having compromised immune systems, including cancer and organ transplant patients. Mr Rijn says when our immune system is unable to clear these spores, the fungus "starts to grow". The researcher adds it "basically kind of eat you from the inside out, saying it really bluntly". He highlights that Aspergillosis holds a high mortality rate of about 20% to 40%. What's even worse is that it continues to remain difficult to diagnose, since patients show symptoms like fever and cough - similar to other illnesses. Aspergillus flavus, which prefers hot and tropical climates, might widen its reach by 16% if we continue to burn fossil fuels, the study added. The species can cause severe infections and remains resistant to several antifungal medications. This can even infect a wide range of food crops, thus being a major threat to food security.
Indian Express
16-05-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Aspergillosis explained: Causes, symptoms and treatment options
Aspergillosis is a fungal infection that is typically found in wet conditions, such as compost or rotting leaves, and is brought on by inhaling Aspergillus spores.
Time of India
07-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Deadly fungus could spark health concern in parts of the US: Experts sound alarm
Aspergillus, a common but potentially deadly fungus, may spread across parts of the US, Europe, and Asia due to rising global temperature, researchers have warned. A new study foresees a dramatic increase in infection rates of the deadly fungus that is known to affect the respiratory system and damage lungs. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Aspergillosis, caused by a mold or fungus, can turn life-threatening, particularly for immunocompromised people. It may also impact crops, animals, and ecosystems. While most healthy people are unaffected by inhaling its spores, experts in the new research published in pre-print (not yet peer-reviewed) on Research Square, warn that a warming climate could expand its reach, causing a rise in infection rates, and strain medical systems. The study also mentions the projected year when the fungus prevalence will grow drastically. According to researchers, the deadly infection may rise by 77% by the year 2100, exposing millions of people in Europe to the infection. 'The study indicates that some global climate change scenarios will result in changes of habitat ranges for certain lung and systemic ,' Jacob Glanville, CEO of Centivax, a San Francisco biotechnology company, told Fox News. 'Given that Aspergillus is prevalent in the environment and ongoing changes in climate favor growth of Aspergillus in the environment, it is likely that levels of human exposure will continue to increase, as will diseases of plants, crops and animals,' Cornelius Clancy, MD, associate chief of the VA Pittsburgh Health System and opportunistic pathogens at the University of Pittsburgh told Fox News Digital. Who is at risk? Aspergillus spores aren't a threat for healthy people, but for those who are immunocompromised. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now People who are receiving chemotherapy may face a risk of the spores affecting their lungs and causing Aspergillus pneumonia or other lung infections, which can spread in the blood to other organs, according to Clancy. 'If your immune system is intact, then these spores are usually removed by immune system cells in the airways and lungs and disease does not occur," Clancy said. But for people whose immune systems respond excessively to proteins in the spores, infection can cause reactions ranging from allergy-like symptoms to invasive disease. 'In persons who are immunosuppressed, such as those receiving cancer chemotherapy, there is a risk of spores invading the lungs and causing Aspergillus pneumonia or other lung infections, which can then spread in the blood to other organs,' Clancy cautioned. Elderly or asthmatic Older people or people with pre-existing respiratory diseases like asthma may be at a higher risk of complications from the fungal infection. According to mayoclinic, some people with asthma or cystic fibrosis have an allergic reaction to aspergillus mold. Signs and symptoms of this condition, known as allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, may include fever, a cough that brings up blood or plugs of mucus, and worsening asthma. Some fungi may also become resistant to drugs over time, according to experts. Immunosuppressed people should be the most cautious group as per experts and they must talk to their healthcare experts for protective measures. Explained: Disease X - The threat that could trigger the next pandemic
