As global temperatures rise due to the climate crisis, scientists are warning about newly emerging threats from fungal diseases like Aspergillus, traditionally confined to tropical regions, which are expanding into temperate areas throughout Europe. A recent study co-authored by Norman Van Rhijn highlights how changing climates create ideal conditions for fungi to spread, affecting humans, livestock, and crops.
The study emphasizes Aspergillus species as “cross-kingdom pathogens” that can infect a variety of hosts, including humans, and can lead to severe health issues such as aspergillosis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Aspergillus fumigatus, a particularly dangerous species, thrives at body temperature and is expected to expand its range significantly by 2100, heightening exposure risks in Northern Europe, Asia, and the U.S.
Moreover, Aspergillus flavus can contaminate crops, producing aflatoxin, which is harmful to human health. The increase in temperature and CO2 levels is likely to exacerbate these issues, posing greater risks to food security and public health.
Experts like Elaine Bignell from the University of Exeter stress the rapid growth of A. fumigatus at high temperatures and the challenges posed by limited antifungal treatment options. With extreme weather patterns expected to increase fungal infections, populations—especially those recovering from illnesses like COVID-19—are at heightened risk. The authors call for urgent needs in antifungal drug development and vaccine research to address these emerging threats.
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