Rising global temperatures could dramatically expand the reach of deadly fungal infections, CNN reports, citing a new study from the University of Manchester.
The research focuses on Aspergillus, a common fungus that can cause life-threatening lung infections, particularly in people with weakened immune systems. One species, Aspergillus flavus, could expand its global range by 16% if fossil fuel emissions remain high, while A. fumigatus may spread by over 77% by 2100—potentially affecting millions in Europe.
“These fungi can ‘eat you from the inside out’ if the immune system fails to stop them,” said Norman van Rijn, one of the study’s authors.
CNN notes that fungal diseases currently kill around 2.5 million people each year, yet remain under-researched. The World Health Organization has already classified Aspergillus flavus as a critical public health threat due to drug resistance.