Fungal infections, both common and invasive, are on the rise and pose a significant threat, particularly to immunocompromised individuals. Invasive fungal infections can affect the lungs and spread through the blood to vital organs, often proving life-threatening. Lack of awareness has led to misdiagnoses and hindered the development of effective treatments. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently released its first-ever list of health-threatening fungi. Antifungal resistance, similar to antibiotic resistance, is also a growing concern. Some fungi have developed resistance to antifungal medications, making treatment challenging. The rise in invasive fungal infections is linked to a surge in life-saving operations and medical interventions, such as chemotherapy, which can weaken the immune system. Additionally, antifungals are used in agriculture and on flower bulbs, contributing to the development of resistance. Understanding these challenges is crucial for addressing the growing threat of invasive fungal infections.
