2025-05-26T05:29:17Z

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As the effects of climate change continue to unfold and global temperatures rise, researchers from Manchester University are raising alarms about a potentially deadly fungal threat. Their latest study, currently undergoing peer review, reveals that the notorious fungus Aspergillus is expected to expand its reach significantly as a direct consequence of climate change.

The study highlights how climate change and the subsequent rise in global temperatures could accelerate the proliferation of various fungal pathogens. Researchers predict that as the climate crisis intensifies, certain species of Aspergillus will push into new territories across North America, Europe, and parts of North Asia, including China and Russia. Norman van Rijn, a key author of the study and an expert in climate change and infectious diseases, shared his insights with news.com.au, emphasizing that fungi are often overlooked in comparison to viruses and parasites, despite their growing impact on global health.

Aspergillus, a common group of fungi, is notorious for causing life-threatening diseases in humans as well as severe infections in livestock and plants. While healthy humans typically inhale the tiny spores released by these fungi without adverse effects, individuals with pre-existing lung conditions—such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cystic fibrosis—as well as those with weakened immune systems due to illnesses like COVID-19 or cancer are at heightened risk for serious health complications.

Among the most concerning diseases associated with Aspergillus is aspergillosis, which carries a startling mortality rate ranging from 20 to 40 percent. Van Rijn warns that if the immune system fails to eliminate these spores, the fungus can proliferate within the body, potentially leading to severe internal damage: “it can eat you from the inside out,” he cautioned, shedding light on the urgent need for awareness and research.

The Manchester University study specifically examined three pathogenic species of Aspergillus—A. fumigatus, A. flavus, and A. niger—under various climate scenarios. Aspergillus flavus has been classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as part of a "critical group of fungal pathogens" due to its significant impact on public health and its rising antifungal resistance. This species thrives in hotter, tropical climates, and researchers predict that if fossil fuel emissions persist, its geographical range could expand by up to 16 percent.

A. fumigatus, which is typically found in temperate regions, is projected to migrate northward into Europe. Meanwhile, A. niger, which currently inhabits hotter areas such as sub-Saharan Africa, Australia, and southern Asia, is also expected to shift northward as climate conditions worsen. Such migrations could have profound ecological implications, disrupting local ecosystems and impacting agriculture and biodiversity.

Overall, the findings from this study underscore the critical need for increased research and monitoring of fungal pathogens, particularly as the world grapples with the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change. The potential for these fungi to thrive and spread in new environments calls for urgent public health strategies and a commitment to addressing the root causes of climate change.