Scientists warn of infectious killer fungus spreading worldwide

Published 2 hours ago
Source: metro.co.uk
A drug-resistant variant of a common fungus is spreading across the globe, researchers have warned in a new review. Fungal infections affect nearly 6.5 million people each year, and are associated with a high mortality rate of over 50% even with antifungal therapy. Candida auris is a type of invasive yeast that can cause deadly infections – especially in those who already have a weakened immune system. (Picture: Getty)
The variant was first discovered in 2009, in the ear canal of a patient in Japan, and soon spread to many countries, including India, where it was identified as a major public health threat in 2014. Now, the latest review reveals several unique traits of the fungus that enable it to spread rapidly. Candida auris is already found in at least 61 countries on six continents. (Picture: Getty)
The study shows that the fungus is rapidly becoming resistant to drugs due to its ability to switch from a yeast-like growth form to a filament-driven spread. It also has cell wall proteins that enable it to stick to human skin ‘like glue’ and colonise it. It has ‘efflux pumps’ on its cell membrane that can remove antifungal drugs before they can kill it. It also sticks together to form slimy biofilm layers on surfaces, making it hard for drugs to penetrate. (Picture: Getty)
The study says: ‘Skin colonisation by C auris is a significant medical concern because colonised patients may facilitate inter- and intra-hospital transmission of C auris to other patients. The diagnosis of C auris infections is often hampered by misidentification, leading to delays in starting appropriate antifungal therapy. Taken together, these data underscore the need to develop novel antifungal agents with broad-spectrum activity against human fungal pathogens, to improve diagnostic tests, and to develop immune- and vaccine-based adjunct modalities for the treatment of high-risk patients.’ (Picture: Getty)
The researchers call for improved efforts to raise awareness about the fungal disease through better surveillance mechanisms, especially in resource-poor countries. However, it also notes that there are three new drugs that are currently in clinical trials that could likely become available for treatment of this fungal infection soon. (Picture: Getty)
Meanwhile, a study in May this year reported that rising global temperatures will accelerate the spread of a fungus responsible for millions of infections and up to 2.5 million deaths globally each year. One species, Aspergillus fumigatus, could expand its range by 77% by 2100, reaching more northerly parts of Europe, Asia and the Americas, potentially exposing 9 million more people in Europe alone. (Picture: Getty)
Lead author of the report, Dr Norman van Rhijn, said: ‘Changes in environmental factors, such as humidity and extreme weather events, will change habitats and drive fungal adaptation and spread. We’ve already seen the emergence of the fungus Candida auris due to rising temperatures, but, until now, we had little information of how other fungi might respond to this change in the environment.  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. Raising awareness and developing effective interventions for fungal pathogens will be essential to mitigate the consequences of this.’ (Picture: Getty)

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