Latest news with #Aspergillosis
New Indian Express
4 days ago
- Health
- New Indian Express
Don't Blame the Pigeons for Aspergillosis
In recent times, the blue rock pigeon — also known as Columba livia — has found itself at the center of a growing controversy. Commonly seen flitting about on balconies, rooftops, and urban ledges, this resilient bird is now being scapegoated for an illness called aspergillosis. This respiratory infection, caused by fungi from the Aspergillus genus, has sparked headlines and concerns, leading many to point fingers squarely at these pigeons as disease carriers. But is this accusation fair, or is it a case of misplaced blame? Let's take a closer, more informed look. What is Aspergillosis, Really? Aspergillosis is an infection caused by Aspergillus — a genus of mold that includes hundreds of species. The most common culprit in infections is Aspergillus fumigatus, a fungus that produces tiny airborne spores. These spores, when inhaled in large quantities, can cause respiratory illness, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems, preexisting lung conditions, or prolonged exposure to dusty, moldy environments. However, here's the critical fact: Aspergillus is ubiquitous. It's found everywhere — in soil, decaying vegetation, compost, dust, old building materials, air-conditioning systems, bird droppings, and even in grain and spices. It thrives in damp and poorly ventilated areas. The spores are so widespread that avoiding them entirely is virtually impossible. Inhaling a few spores is a part of daily life and is generally harmless to healthy individuals. Pigeons Are Not the Sole Source — Far From It Despite popular belief, pigeons are not the origin of aspergillosis. While the droppings of any bird — including pigeons — can provide a damp organic medium where mold might grow, this is no different from a damp corner of a bathroom, an uncleaned air duct, or neglected plant soil. The link between pigeons and the fungus is indirect at best. The presence of pigeons may coincide with mold-friendly conditions, but they are not the cause. Blaming pigeons alone for spreading a naturally occurring mold is scientifically unfounded. The real issue is environmental hygiene, not avian biology.
New Straits Times
19-06-2025
- Health
- New Straits Times
#HEALTH: Hot weather brings higher risk of skin and respiratory illnesses
A RISE in allergies and skin conditions can be expected during the current hot spell. When temperatures rise, skin becomes very dry and itchy and sometimes, a scratch may cause a wound that develops into a skin infection, explains Prince Court Medical Centre deputy medical director and consultant emergency physician, Accident and Emergency Department, Dr Siva Perumal. Fungal infections may also be more prevalent as the extreme humidity causes us to sweat profusely, he explains. Some organisms are also predominantly active during the hot season, giving rise to respiratory illnesses. One of these is Aspergillosis, which spreads during a hot spell, resulting in symptoms such as cough and fever. Dengue is also quite common during hot weather, says Dr Siva. This is mainly due to the increased presence of stagnant water. "During hot weather, it may rain for a while and then there will be no rain for a few days, so stagnant water is everywhere and this encourages the breeding of mosquitoes." VULNERABLE GROUPS The most vulnerable groups during a hot spell and those more likely to face heat-related illness are children and the elderly. "With children, their body surface area is larger than their volume and they tend to lose a lot of water through sweat as they are very active, and this makes them vulnerable to heat-related illness. "With the elderly, many of them have pre-existing health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure," says Dr Siva. Senior citizens may also be on medication (diuretics) which cause them to urinate more. Their water intake is also generally less and coupled with the hot season, this puts them at risk. HEATSTROKE Heatstroke is dangerous and can be fatal. One of the key factors in preventing and managing heatstroke is recognising the stages of the condition and its early symptoms. The first stage is "heat cramps". says Dr Siva, and symptoms include cramps in the legs or limbs when one has been out in the sun for some time. The second stage is "heat exhaustion", when a person starts to experience nausea or vomiting and feel like they may faint. The third and final stage is heatstroke itself, where people become unconscious, says Dr Siva and first aid needs to be administered immediately. While heatstroke can be fatal, if first aid is administered and the person taken to hospital immediately, it can be reversed. However, it is crucial to recognise the early signs/stages so it doesn't progress. During the first stage, children, for example, may complain of tiredness or pain in their legs and become less active. In infants, their urine output would be reduced and parents may notice this when changing their diaper. The elderly may complain of tiredness and their blood pressure would be lower than normal when monitored. PREVENTION During a hot spell, it's advisable to prevent children from playing in direct sunlight or indulging in outdoor activities which keep them in the sun for too long, advises Dr Siva. "Parents need to keep providing liquids at regular intervals and also foods that have a high water content so children stay hydrated." Fruits like watermelon and cool salads are good options. For adults, avoid consuming a lot of meat, caffeine and alcohol, as it increases metabolism and consequently body temperature. For those who regularly exercise, it's important to do so in the early morning or late evening to avoid the heat and to hydrate oneself before, during and after a workout. HEATSTROKE - TAKE ACTION When a person becomes unconscious as a result of heatstroke, take these steps immediately: *Move the individual to a cool place *Loosen their clothing *Apply ice on their forehead, armpit and neck or spray them with cold water and put them under a fan *Take them to the hospital
Time of India
27-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Global pandemic warning: Aspergillus deadly fungus mirrors HBO's ‘The Last of Us'
Aspergillus fungus (Image source: Wikipedia) As climate change accelerates, it is not only reshaping our weather patterns and ecosystems but also silently altering the spread of dangerous pathogens. Among these, Aspergillus—a common yet potentially deadly fungus—is gaining new ground. Once confined primarily to warmer regions, this airborne threat is now forecasted to expand its reach into parts of North America, Europe, China, and Russia. A recent study by researchers at the University of Manchester employed advanced climate modeling to predict how Aspergillus will migrate in response to rising temperatures, warning that millions more people may be at risk of infection by 2100. While Aspergillus is a familiar organism to scientists and farmers, its ability to cause invasive aspergillosis—a severe lung infection—makes it a serious public health concern. The new findings arrive amid a global rise in fungal infections, which already claim an estimated 2.5 million lives annually. These numbers may be underreported due to the difficulty in diagnosis and the limited global surveillance of fungal diseases. This article explores the science behind Aspergillus, the impact of climate change on its distribution, and the urgent need for enhanced monitoring and medical preparedness. What is Aspergillus? Understanding the fungus among us Aspergillus is a genus of over 300 mold species that thrive in various environments—soil, plant matter, decaying leaves, compost, and even indoor dust. Although many species are harmless and some are even useful in industrial fermentation (like soy sauce or citric acid production), several are pathogenic to humans and animals. Among the most concerning are: Aspergillus fumigatus : The most common cause of aspergillosis, particularly dangerous for immunocompromised individuals. Aspergillus flavus : Known for producing aflatoxins, potent carcinogens that contaminate crops like maize and peanuts. Aspergillus niger : Common in indoor environments and capable of causing ear infections and respiratory issues. These fungi reproduce by releasing microscopic spores (conidia) into the air. While healthy individuals can inhale these spores with little consequence, vulnerable populations—including those with asthma, COPD, cancer, organ transplants, or HIV—face a much higher risk of serious complications. Aspergillosis explained: The deadly lung infection you've probably never heard of Aspergillosis refers to a group of diseases caused by Aspergillus spores that take root in the lungs and sometimes spread to other parts of the body. The most severe form, invasive aspergillosis, can be fatal if not treated promptly. Types of Aspergillosis: Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) : A hypersensitive reaction often seen in asthma or cystic fibrosis patients. Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) : Long-term infection leading to lung cavities and respiratory decline. Invasive aspergillosis : A fast-spreading, often deadly condition in immunocompromised individuals. Symptoms include: Persistent cough Shortness of breath Fever Chest pain Hemoptysis (coughing up blood) W hat makes aspergillosis particularly dangerous is the difficulty in diagnosis. Its symptoms often mimic other respiratory illnesses, delaying appropriate treatment. Moreover, treatment options are limited, with only four primary classes of antifungal drugs available—azole resistance among Aspergillus species is growing, making infections harder to treat. How climate change is driving the spread of Aspergillus The University of Manchester study underscores a chilling reality: as global temperatures climb, so does the habitat range of heat-tolerant fungi. Using a combination of climate simulation models and fungal biology data, researchers evaluated how Aspergillus species will respond to two climate scenarios—moderate emissions and high fossil fuel use. Key findings: Aspergillus flavus, a heat-loving fungus, is projected to expand its global range by 16% under high-emission scenarios. Aspergillus fumigatus, traditionally found in temperate regions, may shift its range northward, with a 77.5% increase in its potential habitat by 2100. This expansion could put 9 million more people in Europe at increased risk. Cooler regions such as northern China, Russia, and parts of Canada could soon become hotspots for fungal colonization. Conversely, sub-Saharan Africa, already experiencing extreme temperatures, might become too hot for certain Aspergillus strains, leading to unexpected shifts in ecological balance. Why heat makes fungi stronger Fungi generally struggle to thrive at the high internal temperatures of mammals. However, as average global temperatures rise, fungi are slowly adapting to heat stress. This means they are more likely to survive—and flourish—inside the human body. This heat-hardening process could lead to the emergence of new, more virulent fungal strains capable of overcoming our natural defenses. In addition to temperature changes, climate-linked weather events like hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods play a critical role in dispersing fungal spores. The 2011 tornado in Joplin, Missouri, for example, led to a rare and deadly fungal outbreak. As these extreme weather events become more frequent, the spread of Aspergillus spores across long distances will likely increase, enhancing their potential to infect new populations. Public health implications: Who is at risk? Populations most vulnerable to the threat of Aspergillus expansion include: Immunocompromised individuals (e.g., cancer, HIV, or transplant patients) Elderly populations People with respiratory conditions such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, or COPD Rural populations with increased exposure to airborne spores from agriculture In regions projected to become new habitats for Aspergillus, public health systems may not be adequately prepared to diagnose or treat fungal diseases. There's an urgent need for greater awareness, improved diagnostic tools, and antifungal research funding to meet this looming threat. Medical challenges: Drug resistance and diagnostic gaps One of the most alarming aspects of the fungal threat is growing antifungal resistance. Azoles, the most commonly used antifungal drugs, are becoming less effective due to overuse in both medicine and agriculture. Some Aspergillus strains now exhibit multi-drug resistance, rendering current treatments ineffective and complicating recovery. Further compounding the crisis is the lack of rapid diagnostic tests. In many healthcare settings, fungal infections are misdiagnosed or only detected at advanced stages. Unlike bacteria or viruses, fungal pathogens are harder to culture and require specialized labs to identify accurately. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
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First Post
26-05-2025
- Health
- First Post
Fungi that could ‘eat you from inside out' likely to spread amid warming planet
Scientists from Manchester University have projected that Aspergillus, a common group of fungi present globally, could spread to new regions as the world heats up. These moulds can cause aspergillosis, a lung disease that could spread to other organs, including the brain read more Aspergillus, a type of fungi, is seen in this handout image from the Centres for Disease Control, October 13, 2012. File Photo/Reuters A deadly fungus that causes millions of deaths annually will spread globally as temperatures soar, as per new research. The Aspergillus family will proliferate to new regions, risking infections to millions of people. Scientists from Manchester University published these findings in a study this month. The report puts focus on the deadly moulds living among us that could trigger the next disease outbreak. Let's take a closer look. What is Aspergillus? Aspergillus is a group of fungi present globally that can cause aspergillosis, a lung disease that could spread to other organs including the brain. As Financial Times (FT) noted, some species of Aspergillus can be used for industrial chemistry and the fermentation of soy and sake. However, the group of fungi can also be dangerous to health. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Aspergillus releases a huge amount of tiny spores into the air. Humans inhale these spores, however, most do not get health issues. Although those with a compromised immune system are at an increased risk. The immune system of people who have asthma, cystic fibrosis, cancer or had severe flu or Covid-19 is unable to clear the spores. If the body fails to get rid of these spores, the fungus 'starts to grow and basically kind of eat you from the inside out, saying it really bluntly,' Norman van Rijn, one of the study's authors and a climate change and infectious diseases researcher at the University of Manchester, told CNN. He pointed out that the mortality rates of Aspergillosis are around 20 per cent to 40 per cent. Its detection is also not easy, as patients usually have symptoms like fevers and coughs, which are common to many illnesses. The video game-turned-TV show The Last of Us portrays a fictional brain-altering fungus that wipes out much of humanity. However, the real danger caused by fungal pathogens is still not well-known. Fungi is believed to be behind five per cent of all deaths globally. ALSO READ: Explained: Candida auris, the deadly fungus spreading across the US STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD What did the study find? Researchers found that some Aspergillus species can spread to new parts of North America, Europe, China, Russia, and Asia as the climate becomes warmer. The study, funded by the charitable foundation the Wellcome Trust, used computer simulations and forecasts to map the potential future proliferation of Aspergillus strains – A. flavus, A. fumigatus and A. niger. '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,' van Rijn told CNN. Aspergillus fumigatus could spread northwards toward the North Pole as global temperatures rise, CNN reported, citing the study. It could spread to an additional 77.5 per cent by 2100, the study found, potentially risking nine million (90 lakh) people in Europe. Aspergillus fumigatus could spread to the North Pole. Wikimedia Commons The fungi species can increase 'astonishingly quickly' at high temperatures in compost where it lives, Professor Elaine Bignell, co-director at the MRC Centre for Medical Mycology at Exeter university, told FT. 'Its lifestyle in the natural environment may have provided A. fumigatus with the fitness advantage needed to colonise human lungs,' Bignell said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Aspergillus flavus, which lives on many crops, could spread to an additional 16 per cent of territory by 2100, the researchers forecast. In 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) included Aspergillus flavus in its critical group of fungal pathogens due to its impact on public health and risk of antifungal resistance. As fungal pathogens become more resistant to treatment, climate change could further drive the spread of Aspergillus to new areas. Underlining the importance of the research, Bignell told CNN that the new Aspergillus study 'rightfully shines a light on the threat of fungi that dwell in our natural environment and how under-prepared we are to cope with shifts in their prevalence.' However, she said that there are still many uncertainties and more research needs to be done. With inputs from agencies
NDTV
26-05-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Aspergillus: The Fungi That Can Eat Humans 'Inside Out', Spark A Pandemic
As global temperatures continue to rise, Aspergillus, an infection-causing fungi responsible for millions of deaths a year, could significantly expand to new regions, a study has warned. Aspergillus species are "widespread environmental saprotrophs" that can cause severe infections in humans, livestock, and plants, the research conducted by a team of scientists from Manchester University said. It was published earlier this month and is currently being peer-reviewed, CNN reported. Aspergillus is a common group of fungi found across the world. It causes aspergillosis, a life-threatening disease, which primarily affects the lungs in humans. To map the potential spread of Aspergillus in the future, the researchers used various simulations and forecasts. As part of the study, the scientists found there were specific Aspergillus species that will expand in the future as the climate crisis intensifies. This means these will next reach new regions in North America, Europe, China and Russia. Norman van Rijn, one of the authors of the study, suggests that Fungi are "under-researched" when compared to viruses and parasites. These are expected to impact major areas of the world in the coming time, he said. Citing the famous HBO series, The Last Of Us, where most of the world's population turned into violent monsters due to an infectious mutant fungus, Mr Rijn hopes it will raise the profile of fungal infections in real life. Mr Rijn serves as a climate change and infectious diseases researcher at the University of Manchester. On average, an estimated 2.5 million people are killed every year by fungal infections. The lack of data means the number could get higher. Like several other fungi, Aspergillus grow like small filaments in soils. They go on to release a large amount of tiny spores that further spread via air. These get inhaled by humans on a daily basis. Most people are not expected to experience any health concerns, for their immune system is capable enough to clear them. But it's not the same for those dealing with asthma, cystic fibrosis or COPD. Also in danger are those having compromised immune systems, including cancer and organ transplant patients. Mr Rijn says when our immune system is unable to clear these spores, the fungus "starts to grow". The researcher adds it "basically kind of eat you from the inside out, saying it really bluntly". He highlights that Aspergillosis holds a high mortality rate of about 20% to 40%. What's even worse is that it continues to remain difficult to diagnose, since patients show symptoms like fever and cough - similar to other illnesses. Aspergillus flavus, which prefers hot and tropical climates, might widen its reach by 16% if we continue to burn fossil fuels, the study added. The species can cause severe infections and remains resistant to several antifungal medications. This can even infect a wide range of food crops, thus being a major threat to food security.
