Killer Fungal Infections: A Growing Global Danger
Fungal infections may sound like something out of a science fiction story, but the reality is that they claim the lives of an estimated 1.7 million people worldwide each year. This staggering number is higher than the death toll caused by tuberculosis or malaria, making it a significant public health concern. Recognizing the severity of the issue, the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have issued new warnings, as population growth, climate change, and drug resistance continue to fuel the emergence and spread of these deadly infections.
A Range of Illnesses
Fungal infections encompass a wide array of illnesses, ranging from common conditions like athlete’s foot to more dangerous tissue infections. Among these diseases are blastomycosis and cryptococcus, which are airborne. Hospitals are not immune either, as healthcare facilities can become breeding grounds for the opportunistic yeast infection Candida auris.
Challenges in Diagnosis
Unlike bacterial or viral infections, fungal infections in the lungs can be challenging to diagnose accurately. They often masquerade as respiratory illnesses caused by bacteria or viruses, leading to delayed treatment and potentially worsened outcomes. This diagnostic delay can have severe consequences for patients, as they struggle to find the right answers to their persistent and worsening symptoms.
One such case is Allison Karsh, a mother from Arizona, who spent weeks desperately searching for a diagnosis. Karsh was eventually diagnosed with Valley fever, a fungal infection caused by the coccidioides fungus that resides in the arid deserts of the American Southwest. However, the road to recovery was far from easy, as she experienced incapacitating fatigue for months.
The Need for Solutions
To combat these devastating infections, it is essential to prioritize extensive research on treatments and develop vaccines. Unfortunately, unlike for bacterial and viral infections, there are no anti-fungal vaccines currently available. Recognizing this gap, the World Health Organization introduced the first “fungal priority pathogens” list in late 2022, emphasizing the urgent need to address these neglected diseases and encouraging scientific efforts to uncover potential treatments.
Dr. Tom Chiller, chief of the Mycotic Diseases Branch at the CDC, highlights the significance of considering fungi as a vital factor in infectious diseases. Fungi are resilient and challenging to treat, meaning we must acknowledge their presence and address them regardless of the specific disease or situation.
Fungal Infections in the Context of Climate Change
Two critical factors are exacerbating the threat posed by fungal infections. First, as human lifespans increase, the prevalence of obesity, diabetes, and inflammatory diseases is also on the rise. These underlying health conditions make individuals more vulnerable to fungal infections and provide a conducive environment for the growth and spread of fungi. Furthermore, the second factor contributing to the dangerous landscape of fungal infections is the warming of the planet. The impact of climate change on fungal behavior is a cause for concern, as fungi may become even more efficient at colonizing and thriving within our bodies, taking advantage of our internal environment, which typically maintains a temperature of 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit.
A Beacon of Hope for a Valley Fever Vaccine
Despite the lack of fungal vaccines for humans, researchers are pursuing a groundbreaking initiative in the form of a vaccine for Valley fever. The focus initially remains on canines, as dogs are also susceptible to this infection. The vaccine has garnered considerable attention and support from key advocates, including former NFL tight end Rob Gronkowski. Gronkowski’s personal connection to Valley fever, having seen friends and former teammates suffer from the disease, has inspired his involvement in the quest to bring the vaccine to market.
Dylan Balsz, founder and CEO of Anivive Sciences, the company at the forefront of developing this vaccine, expresses the far-reaching impact such a vaccine would have. While primarily intended for dogs, it would open the door to the creation of vaccines for various fungal infections affecting humans and animals alike. Although the development process for a human vaccine is more complex and time-consuming, researchers like Dr. John Galgiani from the University of Arizona, who has dedicated years to this cause, maintain optimism and are committed to expediting the timeline through extensive support and funding.
Preparing for the Unexpected
While the world focuses intensely on the immediate threat of viral pandemics like COVID-19, there is a real risk that fungal infections may catch us unprepared. The enduring urgency lies in reinforcing the capacity to swiftly develop tests, treatments, and vaccines to effectively combat fungal infections. It may take years to fully address this highly pressing issue, but the determination to prioritize and address it remains resolute to protect the health and well-being of individuals globally.
For in-depth coverage and insights into the escalating dangers posed by fungal infections, tune in to ABC Audio’s flagship daily podcast “Start Here” on Friday, March 15, produced in collaboration with ABC News’ Medical Unit.
