Latest news with #NormanvanRhijn
Time of India
15-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
'World near tipping point': Study warns about a deadly fungus that could kill millions
A new study has raised concerns about the possible spread of a deadly fungus across Europe, Asia, and the Americas due to rising global temperatures. The fungus, Aspergillus, thrives in warm and damp environments and could cause severe lung infections, especially in people with weakened immune systems or chronic respiratory illnesses. Risk of infection linked to warming climate Researchers say that Aspergillus could expand its reach as temperatures rise, making millions more vulnerable to its effects. The fungus is already known to grow in compost and other high-temperature settings. Its ability to survive at 37°C, the temperature inside the human body, allows it to infect the lungs of susceptible individuals. While not everyone who inhales its spores falls ill, people with asthma, cystic fibrosis, or weakened immunity are more likely to be affected. A global shift in species distribution Norman van Rhijn, a co-author of the study, warned that the world was approaching a "tipping point" regarding fungal pathogens. "We're talking about hundreds of thousands of lives, and continental shifts in species distributions. In 50 years, where things grow and what you get infected by is going to be completely different," Van Rhijn told the Financial Times. Live Events The study noted that Aspergillus fumigatus could potentially spread to 77% more territory by 2100 if fossil fuel use continues at the current rate. This would put an estimated nine million people in Europe at risk of exposure. Limited understanding of fungal pathogens Scientists say the danger is made worse by the fact that fungi are one of the least understood groups of organisms. Only around 10% of the estimated 1.5 to 3.8 million fungal species have been properly identified, and very few have had their genomes sequenced. "Its lifestyle in the natural environment may have provided Aspergillus fumigatus with the fitness advantage needed to colonise human lungs," said Professor Elaine Bignell, co-director at the MRC Centre for Medical Mycology at Exeter University. Drug development lags behind Despite the potential threat, investment in antifungal medicines has been slow. Scientists say this is due to high development costs and low expected returns, making it a less attractive area for pharmaceutical companies. The study also mentioned the fungus's ability to survive in extreme conditions, including the radioactive environment inside Chernobyl's nuclear reactors, which underlines its resilience.
Yahoo
18-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Experts sound alarm over potentially lethal fungus that sounds straight out of 'The Last of Us': 'We're talking about hundreds of thousands of lives'
A potentially lethal group of fungi called Aspergillus could spread worldwide, with the possibility of northerly shifts to parts of Europe, Asia, and the Americas. New research suggests that rising global temperatures may drive the health hazard to previously under-exposed regions. As the Financial Times reported in early May, researchers from the United Kingdom have a preprint up at Research Square that shows how the prevalence of a potential killer fungus could increase due to human-caused climate change. A warming planet is set to accelerate fungal growth and spread. On the surface, the threat sounds like something you'd watch in an apocalyptic TV series. In fact, a sensationalized brain-infecting fungus zombifies and wipes out most of the population in the video game and HBO show "The Last of Us," though that series is based on another type of fungus called Ophiocordyceps that actually has various species that specialize in taking over the brain of specific insects and animals. There is, fortunately, no species of Ophiocordyceps that targets humans, but Aspergillus is a real concern for people around the world and not a fictional creation. The spores can cause aspergillosis, affecting especially the lungs but also potentially the brain. When infections occur, mortality rates can be high. "We're talking about hundreds of thousands of lives, and continental shifts in species distributions," preprint co-author Norman van Rhijn, from the University of Manchester, told the Financial Times. "In 50 years, where things grow and what you get infected by is going to be completely different." A news release from the university noted, "Novel projections show that in 15 years, if we rely on fossil fuels instead of clean power, we are likely to see the significant spread of certain fungal pathogens in Europe." Dangerous strains of fungus like Aspergillus can grow rapidly in hot, humid conditions. The steady overheating of our planet and resulting sea level rise, stemming from the use of dirty energy sources, may be creating the ideal circumstances for infections to spread into previously unaffected areas. Scientists have been warning the public about the global health catastrophes that could be on the horizon due to the potential for an explosion in fungal pathogens. Although microscopic, out-of-control fungi can pose significant threats to wellness and safety. People with compromised immune systems and preexisting conditions are often at the most risk of severe complications. And not only do warmer temps and wetter surroundings sponsor fungal growth but also other extreme weather events. Wildfires can exacerbate exposures, disturbing soil habitats and aerosolizing spores in smoke. Following droughts and subsequent heavy rainfall, spores can be released into the air and inhaled in nearby communities. Do you worry about the quality of the air inside your home? Yes — often Yes — but only sometimes Only when it's bad outside No — I never do Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Meanwhile, significant upticks in infection can drive resistance to treatments, which could leave vulnerable populations even more desperate. According to recent reporting from CNN, the World Health Organization "added Aspergillus flavus to its critical group of fungal pathogens in 2022 because of its public health impact and antifungal resistance risk." The outlet noted that the strain can also infect and destroy crops, jeopardizing food supplies. Scientists are working to understand fungal pathogens through initiatives like a five-year project at the University of California, Berkeley, which seeks to uncover factors that can affect the occurrence and severity of fungal infections. Research is also underway to reduce their spread and strengthen food security. The WHO issued a new report in April indicating the need for faster, more reliable, and cheaper testing methods, particularly in low- in middle-income countries, where fungal threats are an especially troublesome public health concern. Supporting pro-environment policies that not only invest in research and development to address these threats but also prioritize and center the marginalized groups disproportionately impacted by fungal infections will be key to meaningful solutions. Fungal spread could be managed in residential areas with natural fungicides. And at home, individuals can reduce some risks by practicing hygiene, properly drying skin, and strengthening their immune systems to fight infection. But since Aspergillus and other fungi could continue to pose global threats, it's global health solutions — including the mitigation of human-caused climate change — that will be most needed. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
14-06-2025
- Health
Climate change leads to spread of infection-causing fungi, scientists say
Climate change may be putting millions more people at risk from an infection-causing fungi, which is likely spreading due to warming global temperatures, scientists say. There will likely be an increased risk of infection due to harmful fungi in the coming years due to climate change, according to researchers from the University of Manchester. The scientists mapped the effects of rising temperatures on global distribution of three infection-causing fungi under different climate scenarios through 2100: Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus and Aspergillus niger, according to the paper, which has been published on preprint platform Research Square and not yet been peer-reviewed. Aspergillus, a fungal mold that thrives in warm, damp climates, is already found worldwide -- including in the U.S. -- and can impact humans, animals, livestock and plants. But current emissions projections indicate that within 15 years a "significant spread" of certain fungal pathogens could occur in Europe and beyond, the researchers said. Under this scenario, the spread of A. flavus could increase by 16%, putting 1 million more people in Europe at risk of infection, according to the paper. Another fungus, A. fumigatus, could increase by 77.5% and potentially expose 9 million people in Europe, the researchers said. A. fumigatus affects the lungs and is one of the most common pathogens responsible for life-threatening infections in humans, according to the paper. Fungal spores transported through the air can cause infections in humans when inhaled -- especially for vulnerable populations and people with weakened immune systems and lung disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Fungi are "incredibly adaptable organisms" that allow them to colonize new geographies and survive environment changes, the researchers said. The emergence and spread of the fungus Candida auris has also occurred as a result of warming temperatures, Van Rhijn said. "Changes in environmental factors, such as humidity and extreme weather events, will change habitats and drive fungal adaptation and spread," Norman van Rhijn, professor at the University of Manchester's School of Biological Sciences and lead author of the paper, said in a statement. The trend is especially concerning due to a rise in antifungal resistance -- driven by the use of fungicides in agriculture to protect crops -- as well as a "severe lack" of treatment options for fungal infections, the researchers said. But fungi are relatively under researched compared to viruses and parasites, Van Rhijn said. Less than 10% of up to 3.8 million species have been described, the researchers said. "Raising awareness and developing effective interventions for fungal pathogens will be essential to mitigate the consequences of this," he said.
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
28-05-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Climate change may fuel spread of fungi that could 'eat you from inside out'
As Covid-19 cases begin to rise again in parts of the world, including India, there's another silent but serious health threat emerging, this time from the fungal kingdom. The rising global temperatures could accelerate the fungi capable of eating you from inside out. A new climate modelling study by researchers at the University of Manchester shows that rising temperatures could dramatically alter the spread of Aspergillus, a group of airborne fungi known to cause severe respiratory infections in humans and widespread damage to crops. Published on the preprint platform Research Square, the study titled Climate change-driven geographical shifts in Aspergillus species habitat and the implications forplant and human health maps how the geographical range of three major Aspergillus species could expand significantly by year 2100, exposing millions more people to the risk of infection, especially across Europe and Asia. Why are Aspergillus fungi a growing concern? The Aspergillus genus includes several common environmental fungi found in soil, compost, and air. While generally harmless to healthy people, they can cause aspergillosis, a serious respiratory infection, in those with weakened immune systems. These fungi are also notorious for spoiling crops and producing dangerous mycotoxins. But here's the real problem — they're evolving. Rising global temperatures and widespread use of agricultural fungicides are helping these pathogens become more heat-tolerant and resistant to antifungal drugs, leaving doctors with fewer tools to treat infections. How rising temperatures increase fungal risks Using global climate models and species distribution tools, the University of Manchester team simulated how suitable habitats for Aspergillus fungi will shift under three scenarios, including low, intermediate, and high warming. Impact in a low warming scenario (below 2°C): Minimal changes in habitat range for Aspergillus species, and the spread is relatively contained. Impact in intermediate warming (2.5–3°C by 2100): Noticeable spread of fungal pathogens into new regions, especially in the Northern Hemisphere. Impact in high warming (around 4°C by 2100): Significant and rapid expansion of Aspergillus habitats, particularly A. flavus and A. fumigatus, into Europe, North Asia, and North America, putting millions at increased risk. ALSO READ | Why scientists are especially alarmed by these findings Antifungal resistance: A. flavus, in particular, is already resistant to many existing treatments. Lack of medical tools: There are no vaccines, diagnostics are limited, and antifungal options are few. Dr Norman van Rhijn, lead author of the study, explains in a statement, 'We've already seen the emergence of Candida auris due to rising temperatures, but this is just the beginning. These maps show how fungal pathogens will likely impact most areas of the world in the future. Raising awareness and developing effective interventions is essential.' Fungi are shifting toward the Northern Hemisphere According to the study, the biggest changes will happen in the Northern Hemisphere. Europe and North Asia: Projected to see the largest increase in fungal suitability due to milder climates becoming warmer. Africa and South America: Paradoxically, these regions could become too hot for fungi like A. flavus to survive — threatening ecosystems that rely on fungi to decompose organic matter and regulate the carbon cycle. The study shows a striking poleward shift: fungi are moving north, where millions more people could be exposed. Climate change threatens food security via fungal spread The study highlights that A. flavus and A. niger are major crop pathogens, especially for maize, rice, and grapes. The research warns of: Reduced habitat suitability in current crop-growing zones Increased risk of contamination in new areas Food insecurity due to loss and spoilage of yields Antifungal resistance is also being driven by overuse of fungicides in agriculture, which compromises both plant and human health. Why fungal threats are difficult to fight Unlike bacteria, fungi are biologically closer to humans, meaning antifungal drugs often have toxic side effects. Plus, only a tiny fraction of the estimated 1.5 to 3.8 million fungal species have been studied, and less than 10 per cent have been sequenced genetically. How to prepare for a warming-driven fungal threat According to the study and public health experts: Accelerate climate action to limit warming and slow fungal spread Invest in fungal diagnostics, surveillance, and treatments Improve awareness among healthcare workers and the public Develop sustainable farming practices to reduce fungicide-driven resistance Fungi may not make daily headlines like viruses do, but they are quietly becoming one of the most dangerous climate-driven health threats of our time. As global warming accelerates their spread and evolution, ignoring them is no longer an option. For more health updates, follow #HealthWithBS
India Today
26-05-2025
- Health
- India Today
Fungus that could eat you from inside out spreads faster amid climate change
A recent study by researchers at the University of Manchester has raised alarms about the increasing threat of fungal infections due to climate study indicates that rising global temperatures are helping dangerous fungi, particularly species of Aspergillus, to spread into new geographic areas, potentially putting millions more people at INFECTIONS ON THE RISE Fungal infections have historically been under-recognised in public health discussions, said the the new study, which has not yet been peer-reviewed, stressed their growing significance. Aspergillus fumigatus, a common mold that can cause severe respiratory infections, is projected to expand its range by up to 77% in Europe by 2100 if current warming trends expansion could expose an additional nine million people to potential Aspergillus flavus, known for producing harmful aflatoxins affecting crops, could see a 16% increase in its spread, putting one million more individuals at risk in Europe fungi are quite dangerous for people with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, or people with chronic respiratory can lead to serious illnesses like aspergillosis, which, if not promptly diagnosed and treated, can be CHANGE AS A CATALYSTadvertisementThe study emphasises that climate change is a prominent factor in the proliferation of these fungal pathogens. Infections can lead to serious illnesses like aspergillosis, which, if not promptly diagnosed and treated, can be fatal. () Warmer temperatures and changing environmental conditions create more hospitable habitats for fungi, allowing them to thrive in regions previously unsuitable for their shift not only increases the risk of human infections but also threatens global food security due to the impact on IN DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENTOne of the pressing concerns highlighted by the researchers is the limited availability of effective antifungal treatments and diagnostic fungal infections are difficult to detect early, and the existing antifungal medications are often less effective due to rising World Health Organisation has recognised Aspergillus flavus as a critical public health threat because of its resistance to treatment."We've already seen the emergence of the fungus Candida auris due to rising temperatures, but, until now, we had little information of how other fungi might respond to this change in the environment. Fungi are relatively under-researched compared to viruses and parasites, but these maps show that fungal pathogens will likely impact most areas of the world in the future. Raising awareness and developing effective interventions for fungal pathogens will be essential to mitigate the consequences of this," said Dr. Norman van Rhijn. The World Health Organisation has recognised Aspergillus flavus as a critical public health threat because of its resistance to treatment. () Aspergillus is a common fungus that lives in soil and spreads tiny spores through the air. We breathe in these spores every day, and for most healthy people, they don't cause any harm because the immune system clears them for people with lung problems like asthma or cystic fibrosis, or those with weak immune systems such as cancer patients, transplant recipients, or those recovering from severe flu or Covid, these spores can be dangerous.'When the immune system can't fight them off, the fungus begins to grow inside the body and, to put it bluntly, it can start eating you from the inside out,' van Rijn told infection, known as aspergillosis, has a high death rate between 20% to 40%. It's also hard to diagnose, since it often causes symptoms like fever and cough, which are common in many other is also a concerning trend since there's a rise in antifungal resistance and a severe lack of diagnostics and treatment options for fungal findings of the study call for urgent action to address the looming threat of fungal infections exacerbated by climate the planet continues to warm, the spread of deadly fungi like Aspergillus species emerges as a growing threat to global Watch
