Deadly Fungal Infections Causing a 'Silent Pandemic', Scientists Warn
Scientists warn of a "silent pandemic" from resistant fungal infections, causing 3.8 million deaths annually. They urge global action to address this growing health crisis and regulate antifungal use.
Read original article
Scientists are warning of a "silent pandemic" caused by deadly fungal infections, which are increasingly resistant to treatment. This issue is exacerbated by the global antibiotic resistance crisis, which results in nearly 5 million deaths annually. Researchers, including molecular biologist Norman van Rhijn from the University of Manchester, emphasize that fungal pathogens are often overlooked in discussions about antimicrobial resistance. They urge governments and the pharmaceutical industry to broaden their focus beyond bacteria. Currently, fungal infections affect 6.5 million people and lead to 3.8 million deaths each year. The World Health Organization has identified key fungal pathogens, such as Aspergillus fumigatus and Candida, which pose significant health risks, particularly to older adults and immunocompromised individuals. The complexity of fungi makes it challenging to develop effective treatments without harming human cells. Resistance to existing antifungal medications is becoming common, and the agrochemical industry’s fungicides contribute to this problem by creating cross-resistance. Researchers advocate for a global agreement to regulate antifungal drug use and balance food security with health needs. They stress that the upcoming UN meeting on antimicrobial resistance should initiate a comprehensive approach to address the growing threat of fungal infections.
- Fungal infections are increasingly resistant and contribute to a significant global health crisis.
- The World Health Organization has prioritized certain fungal pathogens as critical threats.
- Current antifungal treatments are limited, and resistance is becoming the norm.
- The agrochemical industry’s fungicides are complicating the development of effective antifungal medications.
- A coordinated global response is needed to address both health and food security concerns related to antifungal resistance.
Related
Bye Bye Superbugs? New Antibiotic Is Virtually Resistance-Proof
A new class of antibiotics, macrolones, shows promise against antimicrobial resistance by using a dual-target approach. Developed by researchers, they effectively combat resistant bacteria, offering hope for future treatments.
Radiotrophic Fungus
Radiotrophic fungi use ionizing radiation for metabolism, thriving in extreme environments like Chernobyl. Research shows potential for using these fungi as radiation shields in space missions, though challenges remain.
The pathogens that could spark the next pandemic
The WHO updated its priority pathogens list, identifying over 30 viruses and bacteria, including influenza A and monkeypox, emphasizing the need for research and preparedness for potential pandemics.
New compound found to be effective against 'flesh-eating' bacteria
Researchers at Washington University developed GmPcide, a new antibiotic effective against gram-positive bacteria, including drug-resistant strains. It shows promise in treating severe infections and has low resistance potential.
Bananas almost went extinct 70 years ago – Now a deadly fungus is trying again
Cavendish bananas face a serious threat from the Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cubense TR4 fungus, which is difficult to eradicate. Research highlights the need for diversifying banana species to prevent crop failure.
4 commentsThe authors lament the lack of research (and action) on treatment of fungal diseases, despite the introduction of a WHO focus group (WHO FPPL).
The paragraph in question which mentions a "silent pandemic" (AMR = antimicrobial resistance):
"The primary purpose of the WHO FPPL was to guide research, development, and public health action. Unfortunately, the desired effect has not yet been fully achieved as judged by the scope of the articles in The Lancet Series on AMR. Despite the clear need to prominently highlight fungal AMR, we express our disappointment that, even after many years of calling for action for this silent pandemic, only five sentences in one of the four Series papers are devoted to a few fungal pathogens."
then again anti-X treatments are so great that India et al produce them like candy so gonna have to find a new way of fixing those problems once that chicken comes home to roost.
maybe if we had just had a once in several lifetimes chance to EDUCATE on basic hygeine rather than getting bogged down in bad politics we could actually have make a difference... nah lets go back to live animal markets and demanding a fantasy cure-all from our local-GP for what ails us...
If you don't expect this level of discourse, be very careful to decide to bring up the 'pandemic' in future please, it's just for click-bait and funding councils...
Related
Bye Bye Superbugs? New Antibiotic Is Virtually Resistance-Proof
A new class of antibiotics, macrolones, shows promise against antimicrobial resistance by using a dual-target approach. Developed by researchers, they effectively combat resistant bacteria, offering hope for future treatments.
Radiotrophic Fungus
Radiotrophic fungi use ionizing radiation for metabolism, thriving in extreme environments like Chernobyl. Research shows potential for using these fungi as radiation shields in space missions, though challenges remain.
The pathogens that could spark the next pandemic
The WHO updated its priority pathogens list, identifying over 30 viruses and bacteria, including influenza A and monkeypox, emphasizing the need for research and preparedness for potential pandemics.
New compound found to be effective against 'flesh-eating' bacteria
Researchers at Washington University developed GmPcide, a new antibiotic effective against gram-positive bacteria, including drug-resistant strains. It shows promise in treating severe infections and has low resistance potential.
Bananas almost went extinct 70 years ago – Now a deadly fungus is trying again
Cavendish bananas face a serious threat from the Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cubense TR4 fungus, which is difficult to eradicate. Research highlights the need for diversifying banana species to prevent crop failure.