Big Brains Could A Fungal Pandemic Be “The Last of Us?", with Arturo Casadevall
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Jan 9, 2025 Arturo Casadevall, a microbiology professor at Johns Hopkins, warns of a looming fungal pandemic similar to the one in 'The Last of Us.' He discusses how climate change is enabling fungi to adapt and resist treatments, posing a serious public health threat. Casadevall emphasizes the need for preparedness through awareness, vaccines, and innovative pharmaceuticals. He also highlights the unique roles that fungi play in our ecosystem, including their potential for sustainable technologies, and stresses the urgency of addressing fungal resistance before it's too late.
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Natural Immunity
- Human body temperature provides natural immunity against fungi.
- Fungi cannot survive above 97 degrees, the average human body temperature.
Candida auris Emergence
- Candida auris, previously unknown, emerged simultaneously on three continents.
- This suggests a link to global warming as a common denominator.
Adapting Fungi & Decreasing Temperatures
- Fungi are adapting to higher temperatures, challenging our natural immunity.
- Human body temperatures are decreasing, further increasing our vulnerability.
