Killer Fungus Spreading Fast in the UK: Are You at Risk?

Dangerous Fungi Spreading in the UK: Experts Raise Health Alarms

🦠 Killer fungi may become a bigger health threat in the UK due to climate change, researchers warn. Two dangerous fungal infections—Aspergillus and Candida auris—are spreading faster and becoming harder to control, especially in hospitals.

Aspergillus: A Serious Threat in the Air

Scientists at the University of Manchester have warned about the rising risks from the Aspergillus fungus, mainly Aspergillus fumigatus and Aspergillus flavus. These fungi release spores into the air, which people can breathe in.

While most healthy people are not affected, those with asthma, cystic fibrosis, or weakened immune systems (such as cancer patients) are at high risk of aspergillosis, a serious lung infection.

The study says that by the year 2100, Aspergillus could spread 77% more across Europe, including the UK, due to warmer temperatures caused by climate change.

Candida auris: A Deadly Fungus in Hospitals

Another dangerous fungus is Candida auris, a drug-resistant yeast. It’s becoming common in UK hospitals and is hard to treat with regular antifungal medicines.

As of April 2025, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has made Candida auris a notifiable disease, meaning all new cases must be reported. This will help doctors respond more quickly to outbreaks.

Candida auris can survive on surfaces for long periods and easily spreads between patients. Many hospital outbreaks have already been reported.

Why Is This Happening? Climate Change Is a Big Factor

Experts believe that climate change is one of the main reasons behind the spread of these fungi. As global temperatures rise, fungi that once thrived only in certain regions are now appearing in new places like the UK.

This means more people could be exposed to these deadly infections in the years to come.

What Is Being Done to Protect Public Health?

To tackle the fungal threat, health officials are taking the following steps:

• Better Tracking: Hospitals and labs must now report Candida auris cases to the UKHSA to spot outbreaks quickly.

• Stricter Hygiene: Hospitals are tightening cleaning and isolation rules to stop the spread.

• Funding Research: Groups like the Wellcome Trust are investing in new tests and treatments.

• Raising Awareness: Doctors, nurses, and the public are being educated about these fungal threats.