A dangerous fungus called Aspergillus fumigatus is rapidly spreading across the United States, raising serious health concerns. This fungus can cause a deadly lung infection known as aspergillosis, especially in people with weak immune systems, such as those with cancer, asthma, or HIV.
What Makes It Dangerous?
The fungus produces tiny spores that are breathed in without notice. Once inside the lungs, it can cause long-lasting infections or spread to vital organs like the brain, heart, and kidneys. Aspergillosis can lead to organ failure and death if not treated properly.
Rising Cases and Costs
Hospital visits for invasive aspergillosis have increased by about 3% each year from 2000 to 2013. By 2014, nearly 15,000 hospital stays were linked to this infection, costing around $1.2 billion. Chronic lung infections caused by this fungus affect roughly 400,000 people in the U.S.
Why Is It Spreading?
The fungus thrives in warm, humid places and can survive very high temperatures. States like Florida, Texas, California, and Louisiana, with hot climates and farming activities, show the highest exposure. Big cities like New York and Los Angeles are also at risk due to crowded living conditions and aging buildings.
Growing Drug Resistance
A major worry is that the fungus is becoming resistant to common antifungal medicines. This resistance is partly due to the widespread use of similar drugs in farming to protect crops. Resistant spores can spread from soil to humans, making infections harder to treat.
Global Health Warning
The World Health Organization (WHO) has labeled Aspergillus fumigatus a “critical priority” because of its deadly impact and rising drug resistance. WHO calls for more research on new medicines, better testing methods, and stronger hospital safety measures.
How to Stay Safe
Doctors advise people with weak immune systems to avoid dusty, moldy places and wear masks when needed. Hospitals are improving their cleaning and testing to protect patients.
This growing threat highlights the need for better tracking and treatment to stop this deadly fungus from spreading further.
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