Researchers are raising alarms about potentially lethal fungi that may spread to regions in the US, Europe, and Asia.
A study released in the Research Square preprint, which hasn’t gone through peer review, indicates that rising global temperatures could lead to severe infections from Aspergillus, a fungus that thrives in warm, humid environments.
This infection, termed aspergillosis, can impact humans, livestock, and plants, according to the researchers.
Using scientific models, the study forecasts areas where aspergillus is likely to proliferate due to various climate scenarios.
By 2100, it’s estimated that the prevalence of this fungus could rise by 77%, posing a risk to millions in Europe.
Jacob Glanville, the CEO of Centivax, a biotech firm in San Francisco, reviewed the findings even though he wasn’t part of the study.
“This research suggests that different climate change scenarios can alter habitat ranges for specific fungal infections,” he shared.
Dr. Jatin M. Vyas, a professor of medicine and infectious diseases at Columbia University, emphasized the growing concerns about the increased likelihood of Aspergillus in warmer climates.
“Cases are definitely on the rise in milder parts of the world,” said Vyas, who was not involved in the study.
Cornelia Scranty from the VA Pittsburgh Health System noted a rise in human fungal infections and related diseases in agriculture and veterinary medicine.
“Aspergillus is commonly found in the environment and with climate change aiding its growth, human exposure levels might keep increasing, along with plant and animal diseases,” he warned.
Potential Risks of Infection
Experts point out that for most healthy individuals, aspergillus spores usually don’t cause any harm.
“Most people inhale spores daily without issue,” Clancy noted. “If your immune system is functioning well, these spores typically get filtered out.”
However, those whose immune systems overreact can experience various reactions, from mild allergies to more serious infections.
“Immunosuppressed individuals, like those receiving cancer treatment, risk developing serious lung infections, including Aspergillus pneumonia,” Clancy cautioned.
“These infections could have severe consequences.” Allergic reactions and exacerbated asthma can affect those predisposed to allergies, even if they aren’t immunosuppressed.
“Patients with weakened immune systems—often due to medication for cancer or other illnesses—can develop severe pneumonia and systemic disease,” Vyas added.
He noted that these individuals often require hospitalization.
Glanville highlighted that seniors and individuals with asthma are at a higher risk as well.
“The global trend shows an increasing asthma prevalence and an aging population in many areas,” he mentioned.
“As a clinician, I’m concerned about this infection because diagnosing it can be tricky, and treatment options are limited,” Vyas remarked. “There aren’t many effective medications for invasive fungal infections like those caused by Aspergillus.”
Experts agree that some fungi develop resistance to treatments over time, posing an additional challenge.
Prevention and Protection
As a soil-associated organism, completely avoiding Aspergillus is quite challenging, according to Vyas.
He advises that immunocompromised individuals steer clear of soil activities unless they consult their healthcare provider first.
“We really need to delve deeper into how Aspergillus causes disease, improve diagnostic methods, and develop better treatments,” Vyas emphasized.
Glanville echoed the sentiment that fungal infections are often missed during early diagnosis, but noted there are antifungal treatments available for aspergillosis.
“We need to enhance medical training to better recognize these diseases and support the development of new antifungal medications,” he suggested.
Clancy encourages those who are immunosuppressed or on medications that could weaken their immune system to discuss protective measures with their healthcare providers.
