A deadly airborne fungus is silently spreading across the United States, health experts warn.

By Aniket Chakraborty June 18, 2025 Arrow

Aspergillus fumigatus can rot tissue from within and is nearly impossible to avoid.

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It causes lung infections that can invade the brain, heart, and kidneys—especially in the immunocompromised.

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Despite its danger, aspergillosis isn’t tracked nationally, making outbreaks hard to detect.

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Over 15,000 US hospital stays were linked to it by 2014, costing nearly $1.2 billion.

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Drug-resistant strains are rising, driven partly by antifungal use in agriculture.

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Hot, humid states like Florida, Texas, and Georgia are emerging as hotspots.

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WHO has labeled the fungus a “critical priority” due to its high mortality and resistance.

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Doctors urge at-risk individuals to avoid soil, wear masks, and ensure clean indoor air.

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Without urgent surveillance and new treatments, experts fear a looming fungal epidemic.

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