Researchers are raising concerns over the potential global spread of Aspergillus, a potentially deadly fungus that thrives in warm and humid conditions. A recent study published in Research Square, a pre-print platform, warns that rising global temperatures may drive the spread of this mold, potentially leading to severe Aspergillosis infections in humans, livestock, and plants across the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
The study, which modeled climate scenarios, predicts that Aspergillus could see a 77% increase in prevalence by 2100, exposing millions in Europe to the infection. Jacob Glanville, CEO of Centivax, a biotech firm in San Francisco, emphasized that climate change scenarios could alter the habitats of certain lung and systemic fungal infections. Dr. Jatin M. Vyas of Columbia University noted that while the study highlights a growing concern, increased cases are already being observed in temperate regions.
Dr. Cornelius Clancy, an expert in opportunistic pathogens, has observed a rise in fungal infections and diseases affecting agriculture, horticulture, and veterinary medicine. He warned that Aspergillus’s prevalence in the environment, coupled with ongoing climate changes, could lead to increased human exposure and a rise in plant and animal diseases. However, for healthy individuals, Aspergillus spores are typically harmless, with the immune system efficiently handling daily exposure.
Despite this, immunocompromised patients such as those undergoing cancer chemotherapy are at a heightened risk. Aspergillus can invade lung tissue and cause invasive pneumonia or other severe lung infections, spreading through the bloodstream to other organs. Vyas emphasized that while there are antifungal treatments, they are often challenging to diagnose and manage. Some fungi have also developed resistance to common antifungals, complicating treatment efforts.
The experts agree that further research is critical, particularly in understanding how Aspergillus causes disease, improving diagnostic methods, and developing more effective treatments. They also urged medical professionals to enhance their training in identifying these infections and advocated for subsidies to support the development of new antifungal medications. For those at higher risk, including the elderly and those with asthma, it is essential to consult healthcare providers for protective measures.