A team of researchers has forecasted an increased risk of infection from fungi over the coming years, the extent of which will depend on the climate change crisis we are facing now.
This study by researchers from The University of Manchester is published on the preprint platform Research Square. As per the study, less climate mitigation will increase the spread of fungal pathogens in certain areas, putting a large section of people at risk.
The spread of Aspergillus, a fungal pathogen, has been discussed by the experts in the study, it could arise due to climate change. Aspergillosis is a disease caused by the Aspergillus genus, a common mold.
Experts state that the spread of Aspergillus flavus, could increase by about 16%, putting 1 million more people at risk of infection in Europe and the spread of Aspergillus fumigatus, could increase by 77.5%. This will potentially expose 9 million people in Europe.
“Changes in environmental factors, such as humidity and extreme weather events, will change habitats and drive fungal adaptation and spread," says Dr Norman van Rhijn at the University of Manchester.
Why is this a concern?
It is a concerning trend as many fungal infections have high mortality rates. This could be partly because of the lack of diagnostics, vaccines and treatment options as well as a lack of awareness of fungal infections.
Additionally, as per experts, fungi are more similar to humans than other pathogens, hence, developing anti-fungal treatments without toxic side effects is challenging.
Symptoms:
As per Cleveland Clinic, the following are included under the symptoms of aspergillosis.
- Coughing (sometimes coughing up blood)
- Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
- Noisy breathing (wheezing)
- Chest pain
- Fever
- Fatigue and weight loss can be symptoms of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis
