Rising Resistance in Fungi
A global group of scientists is warning about the increasing resistance of fungi to antifungal drugs. Published in The Lancet, their report highlights that fungal diseases are responsible for 3.8 million deaths yearly, and many of these infections are resistant to existing treatments.
Fungal Resistance Must Be Addressed
While bacterial resistance is a focus in the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR), fungal resistance is often ignored. Scientists are calling on the United Nations to include fungal infections in the discussion at their upcoming AMR meeting in September.
The Impact of Fungal Infections
Infections like those caused by Aspergillus and Candida are becoming more dangerous, particularly for people with weakened immune systems. These resistant infections are becoming harder to treat, leading to severe health outcomes.
Why Treating Fungal Infections is Hard
Fungi are biologically similar to human cells, making it difficult to develop treatments that target the fungus without harming the patient. Although new antifungal drugs are being tested, resistance can occur quickly, especially when similar chemicals are used in agriculture.
What Scientists Recommend
- Limit the use of antifungal drugs in agriculture.
- Promote international collaboration to combat resistance.
- Discuss fungal resistance at the UN’s upcoming AMR meeting.