UK on Fungus Alert: The Deadly Threat Rising With the Temperature

Scientists warn that a deadly fungus responsible for millions of infections worldwide may soon reach the UK as rising global temperatures push dangerous pathogens into new regions. Aspergillus, a genus of fungi linked to severe lung and brain infections, is typically found in tropical and subtropical climates, but new research shows it is rapidly moving north due to climate change.

“Infections like invasive aspergillosis already kill 1.8 million people a year,” said Dr. Norman van Rhijn of the University of Manchester, lead author of the study. “With warmer conditions spreading, we’re going to see this threat appear in places like the UK and even Scandinavia.” The fungus also poses risks to livestock and agriculture, contaminating crops and making food unsafe to eat.

The study highlights species such as Aspergillus fumigatus, flavus, and niger, which are expected to expand into Europe even in a best-case climate scenario. While some parts of southern Europe may become too hot for the fungi, the overall risk to public health is growing as these pathogens move into densely populated, previously unaffected areas.

Often overlooked compared to viruses and bacteria, fungal infections are harder to detect and treat. Experts are calling for urgent investment in antifungal research and stronger monitoring systems to track the fungus’s spread. “This isn’t fiction, it’s already happening,” warned Dr. van Rhijn. “We need to prepare now.”