Health and Me

Riya Baibhawi

Canada Achieved Measles Elimination Status In 1998-It Could Soon Lose It

Canada is witnessing a significant rise in <span>measles</span> cases—something that has left health authorities in the country worried. The country achieved the measles elimination status in 1998. However, with the current uptick in cases, it risks losing it. "The risk is substantial," said Dr. Sarah Wilson, a public health physician with Public Health Ontario who has been tracking the measles outbreak in that province, underscored. 

According to government data, Ontario is recording more Measles cases each week than it once saw over an entire decade. "It is a very different situation from what we experienced in the last decade since measles elimination was achieved," she said. Canada currently has more cases than any other country in the Americas. 

Measles Outbreak In Canada Began Last Year

Canada's outbreak began in October 2024. That means if sustained transmission continues until October 2025, the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) can revoke the elimination status. For the unitiated, a complete measles elimination is reached when a virus is no longer endemic (regularly occurring within a specific region or country, which happened in 1998 in Canada. 

The largest outbreak is in Ontario, where there have been 1,795 cases since October, according to the latest numbers from Public Health Ontario. Alberta's outbreak is growing too, with more than 500 cases as of Friday. This is more than the neighbouring United States, where the total number of cases reportedly topped 1046 across 30 states. 

<h2>Measles Outbreak Across American Continents</h2>

PAHO is the body that verifies measles elimination status in the region, which is made up of 35 member states. The region as a whole was the first in the world to eliminate measles in 2016. It lost that status three years later, because of outbreaks in Venezuela and Brazil, but regained it in 2024. The UK and US have also seen the return of transmission in recent years, with the US coming close to losing its elimination status in 2019.

As of May 25, the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated that the total number of cases in the country has increased to 1046. The CDC says 12% of measles patients in America this year have been hospitalised, the majority of whom are under age 19. Meanwhile, the United States Secretary of Health and Human Services, RFK Jr, recently took a 360 on his stance against the Measles, Mumps And Rubella (MMR) vaccine, drawing criticism from his followers. 

As the cases continue to rise, here is everything you should know about this deadly fungal infection:

Measles, or rubeola, is one of the most contagious viruses that have ever been known by science. It is spread mostly by respiratory droplets when an infected individual coughs or sneezes. But wait, there's more. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the virus remains suspended in the air for as long as two hours after an infected individual has vacated the area—and it can also be deposited on surfaces. So to answer your question, yes, measles can spread by touching.

If an individual touches an infected surface—such as a handrail, seat armrest, or bathroom door—and then also touch their eyes, nose, or mouth, they risk infection. This is particularly worrying in places such as concert halls, where tens of thousands of individuals touch communal surfaces within a short period of time.

Perhaps most disturbing is how sneaky the measles virus is. A person infected with the virus can begin to spread the virus four days before the characteristic rash shows up—and continue to spread it for four days afterward. That leaves many people who spread the disease not knowing they are ill, which makes public health responses in crowded events more difficult.

Symptoms may take 7 to 14 days to develop, which is why health officials are calling for alertness at least until June 6. Early measles symptoms mimic the flu: high fever, dry cough, runny nose, and watery, red eyes. The telltale rash—flat red spots beginning at the hairline and spreading downward—may follow later, after the virus has already been spread to others.

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Canada is witnessing a significant rise in measles cases—something that has left health authorities in the country worried. The country achieved the measles elimination status in 1998. However, with the current uptick in cases, it risks losing it. "The risk is substantial," said Dr. Sarah Wilson, a public health physician with Public Health Ontario who has been tracking the measles outbreak in that province, underscored. According to government data, Ontario is recording more Measles cases each week than it once saw over an entire decade. "It is a very different situation from what we experienced in the last decade since measles elimination was achieved," she said. Canada currently has more cases than any other country in the Americas. Measles Outbreak In Canada Began Last YearCanada's outbreak began in October 2024. That means if sustained transmission continues until October 2025, the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) can revoke the elimination status. For the unitiated, a complete measles elimination is reached when a virus is no longer endemic (regularly occurring within a specific region or country, which happened in 1998 in Canada. The largest outbreak is in Ontario, where there have been 1,795 cases since October, according to the latest numbers from Public Health Ontario. Alberta's outbreak is growing too, with more than 500 cases as of Friday. This is more than the neighbouring United States, where the total number of cases reportedly topped 1046 across 30 states. Measles Outbreak Across American ContinentsPAHO is the body that verifies measles elimination status in the region, which is made up of 35 member states. The region as a whole was the first in the world to eliminate measles in 2016. It lost that status three years later, because of outbreaks in Venezuela and Brazil, but regained it in 2024. The UK and US have also seen the return of transmission in recent years, with the US coming close to losing its elimination status in 2019.How Bad Is Measles In The US?As of May 25, the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated that the total number of cases in the country has increased to 1046. The CDC says 12% of measles patients in America this year have been hospitalised, the majority of whom are under age 19. Meanwhile, the United States Secretary of Health and Human Services, RFK Jr, recently took a 360 on his stance against the Measles, Mumps And Rubella (MMR) vaccine, drawing criticism from his followers. As the cases continue to rise, here is everything you should know about this deadly fungal infection:Measles, or rubeola, is one of the most contagious viruses that have ever been known by science. It is spread mostly by respiratory droplets when an infected individual coughs or sneezes. But wait, there's more. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the virus remains suspended in the air for as long as two hours after an infected individual has vacated the area—and it can also be deposited on surfaces. So to answer your question, yes, measles can spread by touching.If an individual touches an infected surface—such as a handrail, seat armrest, or bathroom door—and then also touch their eyes, nose, or mouth, they risk infection. This is particularly worrying in places such as concert halls, where tens of thousands of individuals touch communal surfaces within a short period of time.Perhaps most disturbing is how sneaky the measles virus is. A person infected with the virus can begin to spread the virus four days before the characteristic rash shows up—and continue to spread it for four days afterward. That leaves many people who spread the disease not knowing they are ill, which makes public health responses in crowded events more difficult.Symptoms may take 7 to 14 days to develop, which is why health officials are calling for alertness at least until June 6. Early measles symptoms mimic the flu: high fever, dry cough, runny nose, and watery, red eyes. The telltale rash—flat red spots beginning at the hairline and spreading downward—may follow later, after the virus has already been spread to others.

canada achieved measles elimination status in 1998-it could soon lose it

Scientists Derive Unique Method To Counter Malaria—Feed Mosquitos With Drugs

Infection Causing Fungal Infection Could Kill Millions

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What if, instead of killing mosquitoes to stop <span>malaria</span>, we simply cured them? Harvard scientists have come up with a unique solution—giving mosquitoes anti-malarial drugs could turn these notorious disease-carriers into harmless biters. Malaria—a parasitic disease spread by female mosquitoes—causes nearly 600,000 deaths annually, most of them in children. Traditional prevention efforts have focused on insecticide-coated bed nets, which work by creating a physical barrier and killing mosquitoes that land on them. Many more solutions have emerged in modern times, but the latest proposal asks for curing and not killing the mosquitoes. 

Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium parasites that are transmitted through the bites of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. Common symptoms include high fever, chills, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, and fatigue. In some cases, especially when untreated, malaria can cause severe complications such as organ failure, difficulty breathing, or even death. The symptoms typically appear 10 to 15 days after being bitten and can resemble those of the flu, making early diagnosis and treatment crucial.

<h2>Scientists Identify Two Drugs That <span rel="noindex">Kill Malaria Parasites</span></h2>

To address the lowering resistance to drugs, Harvard researchers tested a variety of drugs on malaria-infected mosquitoes and identified two that kill all parasites when absorbed through the insect's legs. The idea is to add these drugs to bed nets, so even if a mosquito survives contact, it will no longer be able to spread malaria. Study co-author Alexandra Probst calls the research, published in the journal Nature, a novel approach, noting that the malaria parasite is less likely to develop resistance to these drugs due to the limited number found in each mosquito compared to an infected human.

Lab results look promising: The drug treatment lasts up to a year on treated materials, potentially making it a durable and cost-effective alternative to current methods. The next phase—testing these drug-coated nets in real-world conditions—will begin in Ethiopia. Results aren't expected for at least six years, but the hope is to eventually combine both drugs and insecticides on nets, providing a two-pronged strategy against malaria transmission. "Malaria control desperately needs innovation," says study co-author Flaminia Catteruccia in a release. "This is a momentous step forward in the development of a new mosquito-targeted malaria control strategy."

<h2>Here's How You Can Identify Malaria</h2>

Malaria is a life-threatening disease spread to humans by some types of mosquitoes. It is mostly found in tropical countries and is preventable and curable. The infection is caused by a parasite and does not spread from person to person. Symptoms can be mild or life-threatening.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), mild symptoms include fever, chills and headache. Severe symptoms include fatigue, confusion, seizures, and difficulty breathing. Infants, children under 5 years, pregnant women and girls, travellers and people with HIV or AIDS are at higher risk of severe infection.

<strong>ALSO READ: </strong> <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/2nd-covid-death-in-bengaluru-as-man-with-chronic-conditions-dies-how-comorbidities-make-infection-more-dangerous-article-151715097" data-type="tilCustomLink">2nd Covid Death In Bengaluru As Man With Chronic Conditions Dies; How Comorbidities Make Infection More Dangerous</a>

Malaria

Malaria drugs

Kill malaria parasites

vector borne diseases

Health & Wellness

What if, instead of killing mosquitoes to stop malaria, we simply cured them? Harvard scientists have come up with a unique solution—giving mosquitoes anti-malarial drugs could turn these notorious disease-carriers into harmless biters. Malaria—a parasitic disease spread by female mosquitoes—causes nearly 600,000 deaths annually, most of them in children. Traditional prevention efforts have focused on insecticide-coated bed nets, which work by creating a physical barrier and killing mosquitoes that land on them. Many more solutions have emerged in modern times, but the latest proposal asks for curing and not killing the mosquitoes. What Is Malaria?Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium parasites that are transmitted through the bites of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. Common symptoms include high fever, chills, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, and fatigue. In some cases, especially when untreated, malaria can cause severe complications such as organ failure, difficulty breathing, or even death. The symptoms typically appear 10 to 15 days after being bitten and can resemble those of the flu, making early diagnosis and treatment crucial.Scientists Identify Two Drugs That Kill Malaria ParasitesTo address the lowering resistance to drugs, Harvard researchers tested a variety of drugs on malaria-infected mosquitoes and identified two that kill all parasites when absorbed through the insect's legs. The idea is to add these drugs to bed nets, so even if a mosquito survives contact, it will no longer be able to spread malaria. Study co-author Alexandra Probst calls the research, published in the journal Nature, a novel approach, noting that the malaria parasite is less likely to develop resistance to these drugs due to the limited number found in each mosquito compared to an infected human.Lab results look promising: The drug treatment lasts up to a year on treated materials, potentially making it a durable and cost-effective alternative to current methods. The next phase—testing these drug-coated nets in real-world conditions—will begin in Ethiopia. Results aren't expected for at least six years, but the hope is to eventually combine both drugs and insecticides on nets, providing a two-pronged strategy against malaria transmission. "Malaria control desperately needs innovation," says study co-author Flaminia Catteruccia in a release. "This is a momentous step forward in the development of a new mosquito-targeted malaria control strategy."Here's How You Can Identify MalariaMalaria is a life-threatening disease spread to humans by some types of mosquitoes. It is mostly found in tropical countries and is preventable and curable. The infection is caused by a parasite and does not spread from person to person. Symptoms can be mild or life-threatening. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), mild symptoms include fever, chills and headache. Severe symptoms include fatigue, confusion, seizures, and difficulty breathing. Infants, children under 5 years, pregnant women and girls, travellers and people with HIV or AIDS are at higher risk of severe infection.ALSO READ:  2nd Covid Death In Bengaluru As Man With Chronic Conditions Dies; How Comorbidities Make Infection More Dangerous

scientists derive unique method to counter malaria—feed mosquitos with drugs

Tanya Dutt

23 New Covid Cases In Delhi, Health Minister Issues Advisory

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Nine-month-old Child Tested Positive For Covid-19 In Bengaluru

nine-month-old child tested positive for covid-19 in bengaluru

India Logs Rise In New Covid Cases: Here's All You Need To Know

india logs rise in new covid cases: here's all you need to know

A new spike of <span>COVID-19</span> fear has emerged in some areas of India, after the death of an 84-year-old man with serious comorbidities in Bengaluru. The second confirmed COVID death in the city is sparking alarm bells despite low official case numbers.

The patient, who hailed from Whitefield, was hospitalised on May 13 after complications arising from diabetes. He died on May 17. A routine test for COVID-19 during the course of hospitalisation came back positive a day later, confirming his infection. Health authorities say that even though the virus may not have caused his death directly, it had compounded his existing health issues, pushing his life into a fatal downward trend.

With a matching fatality reported recently in Maharashtra's Thane district, this surge has health authorities on high alert, especially for high-risk groups like the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Despite these isolated incidents, Karnataka’s overall COVID-19 figures remain modest. The state’s health department has reported 38 active cases, with 32 confined to Bengaluru. While this doesn’t indicate a full-scale resurgence, experts emphasize the importance of monitoring trends, especially among immunocompromised individuals.

Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao spoke to concerns from the public in a press conference, seeking to remain calm while assuring readiness on behalf of the government. "I appeal to everyone not to panic. Life can go on as normal," Rao said. "We are monitoring the situation closely and are ready to respond if need be."

Till now, no lockdowns or movement restrictions are on the cards. Local authorities in Karnataka and Maharashtra, however, have increased advisories around preventive measures particularly for persons in high-risk groups.

<h2>Why COVID-19 Precautions Need to Come Back?</h2>

As sporadic cases are reported throughout different Indian states, a sense of guarded optimism has crept back in. Health officials are promoting ongoing use of face masks in public areas, regular hand hygiene, and early medical evaluation for flu-like illness.

Hospitals have also been instructed to remain alert and report any unexpected rise in hospitalization that could indicate a local surge in COVID-19 or its complications.

For the time being, the situation is in hand. Yet the Bengaluru and Thane fatalities demonstrate again the chronic exposure of those with underlying medical conditions — a constant theme that continues to be applicable everywhere.

Perhaps the most important lesson of the pandemic has been the dire effects of COVID-19 on people with pre-existing medical conditions. Comorbidities, which describe the presence of one or more chronic diseases in addition to a primary diagnosis, greatly enhance the risk of adverse outcomes.

In the Bengaluru man's case, diabetes was the predominant complicating factor. Based on many studies carried out across the world — including the CDC and WHO — diabetes not only dulls the immune response but also disrupts the body's capacity to tackle infection, making it harder and generally slower to recover.

<h2>Why Do Comorbidities Worsen COVID-19 Infection?</h2>

COVID-19 targets the respiratory system but, in comorbid patients, it can create a domino effect. Chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and kidney failure weaken the immune system and allow COVID-19 to wreak havoc.

Let us discuss the most important chronic conditions that aggravate symptoms of COVID-19:

Heart Disease: Patients with heart diseases like heart failure or coronary artery disease are at higher risk. COVID-19 can overexert the cardiovascular system, making heart attacks or exacerbating conditions more likely.

Diabetes: Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes impair the immune system. Elevated blood glucose levels provide a perfect environment for viral infection to dominate and hinder recovery.

Chronic Lung Diseases: COVID-19 can be harmful to the lungs in individuals who have asthma, COPD, or pulmonary fibrosis. Patients have compromised respiratory function and, upon a second viral attack, acute respiratory failure.

Obesity: Patients with a Body Mass Index of over 40 are at higher risk. Obesity may limit lung expansion and oxygen flow, resulting in worse disease progression.

Kidney Disease: Those on dialysis or with chronic kidney diseases have particularly high risks since both immune systems and kidney function are impaired.

Cancer: Patients with cancer, especially those receiving chemotherapy or radiation, have weakened immune systems. They are less able to support a robust defense against viral infections like COVID-19.

<h2>What is the Biggest Health Concern?</h2>

Although the character of COVID-19 has shifted in recent years — with numerous strains gradually losing potency — the virus is by no means obsolete. For those with chronic illnesses, it remains a real and present threat. Health professionals nonetheless call for preparedness rather than panic.

“It’s not about alarming the public, but educating them,” says Dr. Anita Reddy, an internal medicine specialist based in Bengaluru. “If you’re managing a chronic illness, your priority should be maintaining optimal health and staying up to date on vaccinations, including COVID-19 boosters.”

Governments globally are also moving away from emergency responses to comprehensive disease management, focusing on resilience as well as normal care. Under this setup, individual responsibility comes into play — especially for high-risk patients.

<h2>Need for Proactive Health Management</h2>

The second death from COVID in Bengaluru is not an indication of mass crisis, but a reminder of the ongoing risk that COVID-19 poses for those already having underlying health vulnerabilities. Although community transmission is low, healthcare workers reiterate the need to be vigilant, not fearful.

For older people and those with chronic conditions, proactive care in the form of vaccination, ongoing health monitoring, and simple preventive actions can significantly lower the risk of severe consequences.

As the globe adjusts to a post-pandemic world, such narratives as this one reinforce a straightforward yet strong message: COVID-19 might no longer be the topic of major headlines, but for individuals with comorbidities, its danger is very much real.

covid-19

covid-19 death bengaluru

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chronic illness and coronavirus

A new spike of COVID-19 fear has emerged in some areas of India, after the death of an 84-year-old man with serious comorbidities in Bengaluru. The second confirmed COVID death in the city is sparking alarm bells despite low official case numbers.The patient, who hailed from Whitefield, was hospitalised on May 13 after complications arising from diabetes. He died on May 17. A routine test for COVID-19 during the course of hospitalisation came back positive a day later, confirming his infection. Health authorities say that even though the virus may not have caused his death directly, it had compounded his existing health issues, pushing his life into a fatal downward trend.With a matching fatality reported recently in Maharashtra's Thane district, this surge has health authorities on high alert, especially for high-risk groups like the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.Despite these isolated incidents, Karnataka’s overall COVID-19 figures remain modest. The state’s health department has reported 38 active cases, with 32 confined to Bengaluru. While this doesn’t indicate a full-scale resurgence, experts emphasize the importance of monitoring trends, especially among immunocompromised individuals.Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao spoke to concerns from the public in a press conference, seeking to remain calm while assuring readiness on behalf of the government. "I appeal to everyone not to panic. Life can go on as normal," Rao said. "We are monitoring the situation closely and are ready to respond if need be."Till now, no lockdowns or movement restrictions are on the cards. Local authorities in Karnataka and Maharashtra, however, have increased advisories around preventive measures particularly for persons in high-risk groups.Why COVID-19 Precautions Need to Come Back?As sporadic cases are reported throughout different Indian states, a sense of guarded optimism has crept back in. Health officials are promoting ongoing use of face masks in public areas, regular hand hygiene, and early medical evaluation for flu-like illness.Hospitals have also been instructed to remain alert and report any unexpected rise in hospitalization that could indicate a local surge in COVID-19 or its complications.For the time being, the situation is in hand. Yet the Bengaluru and Thane fatalities demonstrate again the chronic exposure of those with underlying medical conditions — a constant theme that continues to be applicable everywhere.Perhaps the most important lesson of the pandemic has been the dire effects of COVID-19 on people with pre-existing medical conditions. Comorbidities, which describe the presence of one or more chronic diseases in addition to a primary diagnosis, greatly enhance the risk of adverse outcomes.In the Bengaluru man's case, diabetes was the predominant complicating factor. Based on many studies carried out across the world — including the CDC and WHO — diabetes not only dulls the immune response but also disrupts the body's capacity to tackle infection, making it harder and generally slower to recover.Why Do Comorbidities Worsen COVID-19 Infection?COVID-19 targets the respiratory system but, in comorbid patients, it can create a domino effect. Chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and kidney failure weaken the immune system and allow COVID-19 to wreak havoc.Let us discuss the most important chronic conditions that aggravate symptoms of COVID-19:Heart Disease: Patients with heart diseases like heart failure or coronary artery disease are at higher risk. COVID-19 can overexert the cardiovascular system, making heart attacks or exacerbating conditions more likely.Diabetes: Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes impair the immune system. Elevated blood glucose levels provide a perfect environment for viral infection to dominate and hinder recovery.Chronic Lung Diseases: COVID-19 can be harmful to the lungs in individuals who have asthma, COPD, or pulmonary fibrosis. Patients have compromised respiratory function and, upon a second viral attack, acute respiratory failure.Obesity: Patients with a Body Mass Index of over 40 are at higher risk. Obesity may limit lung expansion and oxygen flow, resulting in worse disease progression.Kidney Disease: Those on dialysis or with chronic kidney diseases have particularly high risks since both immune systems and kidney function are impaired.Cancer: Patients with cancer, especially those receiving chemotherapy or radiation, have weakened immune systems. They are less able to support a robust defense against viral infections like COVID-19.What is the Biggest Health Concern?Although the character of COVID-19 has shifted in recent years — with numerous strains gradually losing potency — the virus is by no means obsolete. For those with chronic illnesses, it remains a real and present threat. Health professionals nonetheless call for preparedness rather than panic.“It’s not about alarming the public, but educating them,” says Dr. Anita Reddy, an internal medicine specialist based in Bengaluru. “If you’re managing a chronic illness, your priority should be maintaining optimal health and staying up to date on vaccinations, including COVID-19 boosters.”Governments globally are also moving away from emergency responses to comprehensive disease management, focusing on resilience as well as normal care. Under this setup, individual responsibility comes into play — especially for high-risk patients.Need for Proactive Health ManagementThe second death from COVID in Bengaluru is not an indication of mass crisis, but a reminder of the ongoing risk that COVID-19 poses for those already having underlying health vulnerabilities. Although community transmission is low, healthcare workers reiterate the need to be vigilant, not fearful.For older people and those with chronic conditions, proactive care in the form of vaccination, ongoing health monitoring, and simple preventive actions can significantly lower the risk of severe consequences.As the globe adjusts to a post-pandemic world, such narratives as this one reinforce a straightforward yet strong message: COVID-19 might no longer be the topic of major headlines, but for individuals with comorbidities, its danger is very much real.

2nd covid death in bengaluru as man with chronic conditions dies; how comorbidities make infection more dangerous?

Protective Antibodies Fade After COVID-19 Vaccination- Should You Get A Booster Shot?

protective antibodies fade after covid-19 vaccination- should you get a booster shot?

Infection-causing <span>fungi</span> responsible for millions of deaths each year are expected to spread significantly to new regions as the planet heats up, new research warns — and the world is not prepared.

Fungi are found everywhere — a vast kingdom of organisms ranging from mold to mushrooms, thriving in environments like soil, compost, and water. They play an essential role in ecosystems but can also wreak havoc on human health. Fungal infections are estimated to kill 2.5 million people annually — a number likely underreported due to limited data.

Yet our understanding of fungi, particularly how these highly adaptable organisms will respond to a warming climate, remains limited.

A team of scientists from the University of Manchester used computer simulations and climate forecasts to map the future spread of Aspergillus— a common group of fungi found worldwide that can cause aspergillosis, a life-threatening disease that primarily affects the lungs.

They found that certain *Aspergillus* species are likely to expand their range as the climate crisis deepens, moving into new areas of North America, Europe, China, and Russia. The study, published this month, is currently under peer review.

“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,” said Norman van Rijn, one of the study’s authors and a climate change and infectious diseases researcher at the University of Manchester.

The field has gained renewed attention thanks to HBO’s popular drama *The Last of Us*, which imagines a world overrun by a mutant <span>fungal infection</span>. While fictional, van Rijn hopes the show raises awareness about the very real and rising threat of fungal diseases.

*Aspergillus* fungi grow as small filaments in soil across the globe. Like most fungi, they release vast numbers of microscopic spores that spread through the air. Humans inhale these spores daily, but most people’s immune systems are able to clear them without issue.

For people with underlying lung conditions — including asthma, cystic fibrosis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) — and for those with weakened immune systems, such as cancer patients, organ transplant recipients, or those recovering from severe flu or Covid-19, the threat is far greater.

If the body fails to eliminate the spores, the fungus can begin to grow and destroy tissue. “It starts to grow and basically kind of eat you from the inside out, saying it really bluntly,” van Rijn said.

Aspergillosis carries high mortality rates — around 20% to 40%, van Rijn noted. It’s also notoriously difficult to diagnose, as symptoms such as fever and cough often mimic more common illnesses, and many doctors don’t initially suspect fungal infection.

Fungal pathogens are also becoming more resistant to treatment. There are only four classes of antifungal drugs available, and resistance is rising.

That’s alarming as the climate crisis opens up new areas for fungi to colonize. *Aspergillus flavus*, a species that thrives in hot, tropical climates, could expand its range by 16% if fossil fuel emissions remain high. It’s predicted to move into parts of North America, northern China, and Russia. Not only is *A. flavus* resistant to many antifungals, but it can also infect food crops — threatening both public health and food security. In 2022, the <span>World Health Organization</span> added *Aspergillus flavus* to its critical group of fungal pathogens due to its health impact and resistance risks.

Meanwhile, *Aspergillus fumigatus*, which prefers temperate climates, is predicted to spread northward toward the Arctic. Its range could grow by 77.5% by 2100, potentially exposing up to 9 million people in Europe.

Paradoxically, some regions — including parts of sub-Saharan Africa — could become too hot for *Aspergillus* to survive. But this isn’t necessarily good news. Fungi are vital to ecosystems, including maintaining soil health.

A warming world may also be increasing fungi’s temperature tolerance, enabling more species to survive and thrive inside the human body. Extreme weather events — droughts, floods, and heatwaves — can also help disperse fungal spores over vast distances. After the 2011 tornado in Joplin, Missouri, for example, there was a spike in fungal infections.

The new *Aspergillus* study “rightfully highlights the threat posed by naturally occurring fungi and the world’s lack of preparedness for changes in their spread,” said Elaine Bignell, co-director of the MRC Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Exeter, who was not involved in the research.

However, many uncertainties remain. “There’s still a huge amount of research to be done,” Bignell told CNN.

Despite the deadly nature of aspergillosis, there’s a lack of data on where the fungus lives in the environment and who’s being infected, said Justin Remais, a professor of environmental health sciences at UC Berkeley. He is leading a study of more than 100 million patient records across the U.S., which identified over 20,000 aspergillosis cases between 2013 and 2023. The number of cases is increasing by about 5% annually, he said.

“Fungal pathogens are becoming increasingly common and resistant to treatment, and we are only beginning to understand how climate change is contributing,” Remais noted.

People are used to hearing about diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, and parasites—but far less about those caused by fungi. “There is a desperate need to reverse this trend given the lethality,” Bignell said.

"Any of us could be affected in the future."

Fungal Infection

fungi

aspergillus

world health organization

Infection causing fungi\

Infection-causing fungi responsible for millions of deaths each year are expected to spread significantly to new regions as the planet heats up, new research warns — and the world is not prepared.Fungi are found everywhere — a vast kingdom of organisms ranging from mold to mushrooms, thriving in environments like soil, compost, and water. They play an essential role in ecosystems but can also wreak havoc on human health. Fungal infections are estimated to kill 2.5 million people annually — a number likely underreported due to limited data.Yet our understanding of fungi, particularly how these highly adaptable organisms will respond to a warming climate, remains limited.A team of scientists from the University of Manchester used computer simulations and climate forecasts to map the future spread of Aspergillus— a common group of fungi found worldwide that can cause aspergillosis, a life-threatening disease that primarily affects the lungs.They found that certain *Aspergillus* species are likely to expand their range as the climate crisis deepens, moving into new areas of North America, Europe, China, and Russia. The study, published this month, is currently under peer review.“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,” said Norman van Rijn, one of the study’s authors and a climate change and infectious diseases researcher at the University of Manchester.The field has gained renewed attention thanks to HBO’s popular drama *The Last of Us*, which imagines a world overrun by a mutant fungal infection. While fictional, van Rijn hopes the show raises awareness about the very real and rising threat of fungal diseases.*Aspergillus* fungi grow as small filaments in soil across the globe. Like most fungi, they release vast numbers of microscopic spores that spread through the air. Humans inhale these spores daily, but most people’s immune systems are able to clear them without issue.For people with underlying lung conditions — including asthma, cystic fibrosis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) — and for those with weakened immune systems, such as cancer patients, organ transplant recipients, or those recovering from severe flu or Covid-19, the threat is far greater.If the body fails to eliminate the spores, the fungus can begin to grow and destroy tissue. “It starts to grow and basically kind of eat you from the inside out, saying it really bluntly,” van Rijn said.Aspergillosis carries high mortality rates — around 20% to 40%, van Rijn noted. It’s also notoriously difficult to diagnose, as symptoms such as fever and cough often mimic more common illnesses, and many doctors don’t initially suspect fungal infection.Fungal pathogens are also becoming more resistant to treatment. There are only four classes of antifungal drugs available, and resistance is rising.That’s alarming as the climate crisis opens up new areas for fungi to colonize. *Aspergillus flavus*, a species that thrives in hot, tropical climates, could expand its range by 16% if fossil fuel emissions remain high. It’s predicted to move into parts of North America, northern China, and Russia. Not only is *A. flavus* resistant to many antifungals, but it can also infect food crops — threatening both public health and food security. In 2022, the World Health Organization added *Aspergillus flavus* to its critical group of fungal pathogens due to its health impact and resistance risks.Meanwhile, *Aspergillus fumigatus*, which prefers temperate climates, is predicted to spread northward toward the Arctic. Its range could grow by 77.5% by 2100, potentially exposing up to 9 million people in Europe.Paradoxically, some regions — including parts of sub-Saharan Africa — could become too hot for *Aspergillus* to survive. But this isn’t necessarily good news. Fungi are vital to ecosystems, including maintaining soil health.A warming world may also be increasing fungi’s temperature tolerance, enabling more species to survive and thrive inside the human body. Extreme weather events — droughts, floods, and heatwaves — can also help disperse fungal spores over vast distances. After the 2011 tornado in Joplin, Missouri, for example, there was a spike in fungal infections.The new *Aspergillus* study “rightfully highlights the threat posed by naturally occurring fungi and the world’s lack of preparedness for changes in their spread,” said Elaine Bignell, co-director of the MRC Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Exeter, who was not involved in the research.However, many uncertainties remain. “There’s still a huge amount of research to be done,” Bignell told CNN.Despite the deadly nature of aspergillosis, there’s a lack of data on where the fungus lives in the environment and who’s being infected, said Justin Remais, a professor of environmental health sciences at UC Berkeley. He is leading a study of more than 100 million patient records across the U.S., which identified over 20,000 aspergillosis cases between 2013 and 2023. The number of cases is increasing by about 5% annually, he said.“Fungal pathogens are becoming increasingly common and resistant to treatment, and we are only beginning to understand how climate change is contributing,” Remais noted.People are used to hearing about diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, and parasites—but far less about those caused by fungi. “There is a desperate need to reverse this trend given the lethality,” Bignell said."Any of us could be affected in the future."

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