CDC Study Finds 33% Mold Death Rate, With COVID-19 and Climate Change Raising Risk
Updated
Updated · AOL · Jul 31
CDC Study Finds 33% Mold Death Rate, With COVID-19 and Climate Change Raising Risk
3 articles · Updated · AOL · Jul 31
Summary
A CDC review of 2020-2024 cases at four Atlanta hospitals found invasive mold diseases frequently led to ICU care and killed roughly 33% of hospitalized patients.
The agency said the infections were especially dangerous in people with a current or recent COVID-19 diagnosis, as well as patients with immunocompromising conditions or critical illness.
Among hospitalized cases, 43% were ages 45 to 64; the diseases can spread through inhaled airborne spores, wounds, or contaminated medical equipment.
Researchers urged earlier recognition, treatment and continued surveillance to catch outbreaks, as experts warn heavier storms and hurricanes tied to climate change could drive more fungal infections.