This fungus rots the body from inside, causing havoc in this country
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this fungus is especially affecting those who are cancer patients, organ transplant patients and those suffering from HIV/AIDS.
The dangerous fungus Aspergillus fumigates is spreading rapidly in many parts of America. This fungus, which spreads through the air, can prove fatal for people with weak immune systems, as it rots the body from inside. Its cases are increasing rapidly in states like Florida, Louisiana, Texas, Georgia and California. This is the reason why WHO has placed it in the Critical Priority Pathogen category. Let us know how dangerous this virus is? What are its symptoms and what is the way to avoid it?
Cases increasing rapidly in America
Cases of Aspergillus fumigates have increased rapidly in hot and humid climate areas of America. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this fungus is especially affecting people who have a weak immune system. These include cancer patients, organ transplant recipients and people suffering from HIV/AIDS. Experts believe that this fungus is spreading to new areas due to global warming. According to a study by Manchester University, by the year 2100, this fungus can spread to 77.5% more areas of Europe. At the same time, its effect will also increase in North America.
What is Aspergillus fumigatus?
Aspergillus fumigatus is a saprotrophic fungus found in soil, rotting plants and compost. It forms small spores (conidia) that float in the air and reach the lungs through breathing. Normally a healthy immune system destroys these spores, but in people with a weakened immune system, this fungus can destroy tissues, causing serious illness. This fungus can affect not only the lungs, but also organs like the brain, heart and kidneys.
What are the symptoms of this fungus?
The disease caused by Aspergillus fumigates can be of many types. Its symptoms depend on which part of the body it is affecting and how the patient’s immune system is. Let’s know what its symptoms are.
Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA): It is common in patients with asthma or cystic fibrosis. Symptoms include shortness of breath, cough and chest pain.
Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA): It causes persistent cough, weight loss, fatigue, and shortness of breath. If the fungus damages the blood arteries, vomiting of blood (hemoptysis) can also occur.
Invasive aspergillosis: This is the most serious form, which occurs in people with a weak immune system. Its symptoms can include fever, chest pain, difficulty in breathing. If this fungus spreads to the brain, stroke or seizures can occur.
Sinus infection: Symptoms like nasal congestion, facial pain and headache can occur. These symptoms can be difficult to recognize, as they are similar to other diseases such as pneumonia or TB.
Methods of prevention
It is not completely possible to prevent Aspergillus fumigates, because it is present everywhere in the air. However, some precautions can prevent it. Avoid going to dusty areas. For this, be careful while working at construction sites or in gardens. If you have to come in contact with dust or mold, wear an N95 mask. Wear long sleeve clothes. Cover your skin while working in the garden. If there is a cut or wound in the skin, wash it immediately with soap and water.
Disclaimer: Some of the information given in the news is based on media reports. Before implementing any suggestion, please consult the concerned expert.