Dangerous Fungi Are Spreading Across The US

At least 7,000 people in the US died from fungal infections in 2021, a significant increase from previous decades. Experts say fungal infections are rising due to climbing temperatures and the lack of effective medication. "As fungi are exposed to more consistent elevated temperatures, there’s a real possibility that certain fungi that were previously harmless suddenly become potential pathogens," said Peter Pappas, an infectious-disease specialist at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Candida auris is a highly deadly fungus that has been reported in about half of US states. And appears to have already adapted to warmer temperatures, according to infectious-disease specialists. The WHO has identified Cryptococcus and Candida auris as fungal pathogens of the greatest threat to people.