Fungal Invasion: Climate Change Fuels Deadly Mold Spread
Invisible spores, a constant presence, pose a growing threat as climate change intensifies. Certain molds, adapting rapidly, jeopardize human health and food security. These microscopic invaders are becoming increasingly aggressive, with potentially dire consequences for the planet.
Adapting Aspergillus
Certain fungi, like Aspergillus, readily adapt to new environmental pressures. This mold, found everywhere from soil to hospitals, poses a significant risk. Its ability to evolve, particularly in response to fungicide use, is alarming, as similar patterns emerge with antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
Climate Change’s Impact
Rising temperatures, humidity shifts, and extreme weather events are reshaping the global map of mold distribution. Researchers, including Dr. Norman van Rhijn and colleagues from The University of Manchester, have created models to forecast how these fungi will spread. Their findings reveal a concerning future, particularly in Europe and Africa.
After studying fungal threats for years, Dr. Norman van Rhijn and colleagues at The University of Manchester mapped how three notorious Aspergillus species – A. flavus, A. fumigatusand A. Niger – might spread through the end of the century.
— World Today News (@WorldTodayNews) June 14, 2025
The high-emissions scenario (SSP585) suggests that Europe could face a significant increase in the range of certain Aspergillus species. This could potentially put millions more at risk of infection. In Africa, some regions may become too hot for certain fungi to survive, suggesting complex regional trade-offs.
The Threat to Human Health
“Changes in environmental factors, such as humidity and extreme weather events, will change habitats and drive fungal adaptation and spread,” said Dr. van Rhijn. “We’ve already seen the emergence of the fungus Candida auris
due to rising temperatures, but, until now, we had little information on how other fungi might respond to this change in the environment.”
Hospitals already face Aspergillus outbreaks after building renovations or severe dust storms. Intensive-care units report stubborn cases in patients recovering from the flu or COVID-19. According to the CDC, invasive aspergillosis has a mortality rate of 40-60% in the United States (CDC, 2024).
Challenges in Food and Medicine
Mycotoxin contamination adds another layer of complexity. Increased heat and humidity extends the window for mold growth, forcing farmers to discard grain or blend batches to dilute toxins, which still carry economic and health risks. Azole resistance is climbing, and the drugs don’t work as well. Fungicide demand is also changing to keep up with these issues.
Other fungi, like Fusarium and Cryptococcus, are also responding to warming climates. The spread of these pathogens highlights the urgent need for coordinated monitoring and proactive measures.
Future Outlook
Addressing the challenge requires a multifaceted approach, including emission reductions, smarter fungicide policies, improved building ventilation, and the development of new antifungal drugs. Without these steps, today’s manageable mold could evolve into a more significant threat.
