Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Researchers are sounding the alarm over a growing threat from toxic fungi, warning that climate change may fuel the global spread of dangerous species like Aspergillus, a common mold that already causes millions of deaths each year.
A new study from the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom suggests that rising global temperatures are creating more hospitable environments for Aspergillus in regions previously less affected, including North America, Europe, China, and Russia.
“Fungi remain relatively understudied compared to viruses and parasites,” said Norman van Rijn, a co-author of the study and a researcher in climate change and infectious diseases at the University of Manchester, as reported by CNN Indonesia, (May 26). “But this map highlights that fungal pathogens are likely to impact most of the world in the future.”
Unlike viruses, fungal threats often receive less attention despite their severe and expanding risks. While they play an essential role in ecosystems, fungal infections are estimated to cause about 2.5 million deaths worldwide each year. Experts believe the true number could be significantly higher due to underreporting and limited surveillance.
According to the study which currently under peer review, Aspergillus can trigger a serious condition called aspergillosis, a fungal disease that primarily attacks the lungs. The fungi can also infect the sinuses, brain, and other vital organs. Certain patients may suffer severe allergic reactions or chronic lung infections, sometimes leading to life-threatening complications.
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The findings, point to an urgent need for global health systems to better prepare for a surge in fungal infection, an issue that has long unnoticed.
Fungi are highly adaptive organisms, thriving in environments ranging from soil and compost to water. The Manchester study underscores how unchecked climate change may accelerate the spread of pathogenic fungi and push more people into harm’s way.
Researchers emphasize that the future scope of the spread of toxic fungi will largely depend on the global response to the climate crisis.
(Raidi/Agung)
