Fungal diseases ‘growing increasingly resistant to treatment,’ WHO says

Fungal diseases in humans are becoming increasingly difficult to treat with medicines, posing a significant risk of severe illness and even death, according to a recent report by the World Health Organization (WHO). This report, the first of its kind, sheds light on the lack of effective tests and treatments for fungal infections.

Fungi, including yeasts, moulds, and mushrooms, can cause a variety of infections ranging from common toenail infections to more serious conditions like invasive fungal diseases. While some fungal infections, such as oral and vaginal thrush caused by Candida, are treatable, many are growing resistant to traditional treatments.

Gerry Wright, a biochemistry professor at McMaster University, emphasizes that individuals with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to fungal diseases. This includes people undergoing cancer treatment, organ transplants, or those with autoimmune conditions. Invasive fungal diseases can have mortality rates as high as 88%, making them a critical public health concern.

Rebecca Shapiro, an associate professor at the University of Guelph, points out that factors such as the increasing prevalence of immunocompromised conditions and the overuse of antifungal agents in both clinical and agricultural settings contribute to the rise in fungal infections. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the susceptibility of critically ill patients to fungal diseases.

In Canada, Candida auris is a particularly concerning fungal pathogen that has been identified in hospitals and long-term care facilities. This yeast is known to be resistant to multiple antifungal medications, making treatment challenging. Climate change may also be playing a role in the spread of fungal diseases, as certain species, like C. auris, adapt to grow at human body temperature.

The WHO stresses the urgent need for new antifungal medicines that can effectively treat a wide range of severe fungal infections, especially in children who are underserved in this area. Currently, there are limited approved treatments available, and the development of new antifungals is slow. Researchers like Wright and Shapiro are actively working to develop innovative solutions to combat fungal diseases, but progress takes time.

As the threat of resistant fungal infections continues to grow, it is crucial for healthcare providers to stress the importance of completing antifungal treatments and proper disposal of medications. By taking proactive measures to address this global health concern, we can work towards reducing the impact of fungal diseases on human health.