The world is currently facing an antibiotic resistance crisis, leading to nearly 5 million deaths annually. However, bacteria are not the only mutating pathogens of concern. Fungal infections are also evolving beyond the reach of current medical treatments, creating what some researchers describe as a “silent pandemic” that demands urgent attention.
“The threat of fungal pathogens and antifungal resistance, even though it is a growing global issue, is being left out of the debate,” explains molecular biologist Norman van Rhijn from the University of Manchester in the UK.
This September, the United Nations is convening in New York City to discuss antimicrobial resistance, which encompasses resistant bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites. Van Rhijn and an international team of scientists are urging governments and the pharmaceutical industry to broaden their focus beyond bacteria.
Fungal infections currently affect 6.5 million people and result in 3.8 million deaths each year. Without immediate action, these infections could become even more perilous.
“The disproportionate focus on bacteria is concerning because many drug resistance problems over the past decades were the result of invasive fungal diseases,” write van Rhijn and his colleagues from various global institutions.
In 2022, the World Health Organization released the Fungal Priority Pathogen List, highlighting dangerous pathogens such as:
- Aspergillus fumigatus: A mold that infects the respiratory system.
- Candida: Causes yeast infections.
- Nakaseomyces glabratus: Can infect the urogenital tract or bloodstream.
- Trichophyton indotineae: Affects skin, hair, and nails.
The elderly and immunocompromised individuals are particularly vulnerable to these infections.
Treatments for Fungal Infections
Treatment options for fungal infections vary based on the type and severity of the infection. Available treatments include:
- Topical Antifungals: Creams and lotions for skin infections (e.g., clotrimazole, miconazole).
- Oral Medications: Tablets for more extensive infections (e.g., terbinafine, itraconazole).
- Intravenous Medications: For severe cases requiring hospitalization.
- Surgery: May be necessary to remove fungal masses in certain situations.
Many fungal infections can resolve on their own; however, antifungal medications are often necessary to ensure complete recovery.
Avoiding Dangerous Fungi
Good hygiene practices can significantly reduce the risk of fungal infections. Here are some key strategies:
- Maintain Cleanliness: Regularly wash and dry your skin thoroughly, especially in skin folds and between toes.
- Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Do not share towels, shoes, or nail clippers.
- Wear Appropriate Footwear: Use breathable shoes and cotton socks; change them daily.
- Practice Good Nail Hygiene: Keep nails trimmed and clean; avoid nail salons that do not follow hygiene protocols.
- Be Cautious in Public Spaces: Wear protective footwear in communal areas like pools or gyms.
The UN’s meeting this September must serve as a starting point for a coordinated approach to combat antimicrobial resistance across all types of pathogens.
What Kills Fungus on Contact?
Fungal infections can be persistent and challenging to treat. Fortunately, several substances and treatments are effective at killing fungi on contact. Here’s a detailed overview of what can effectively eliminate fungal pathogens.
Effective Agents That Kill Fungus on Contact
- Occidiofungin: A new antifungal agent developed by Sano Chemicals, occidiofungin rapidly induces apoptotic cell death in fungi without harming beneficial bacteria. It is effective against various *Candida* species, including resistant strains like *C. auris* [1].
- Topical Antifungals: Common over-the-counter antifungal creams and lotions include:
- Clotrimazole (Canesten)
- Miconazole (Daktacort, Daktarin)
- Terbinafine (Lamisil)
These medications are applied directly to the skin and are effective for various fungal skin infections [3][4].
- Hydrogen Peroxide: This common household disinfectant can kill fungi on contact and is often used for cleaning surfaces. Hydrogen peroxide acts as a strong oxidizing agent, which allows it to break down the cellular structure of fungi upon contact. This oxidative process is effective against various microorganisms, including fungi, bacteria, and viruses. While hydrogen peroxide is available in several concentrations, the commonly used concentration for household purposes is 3%. Studies indicate that 3% hydrogen peroxide can effectively kill fungi and is often recommended for mold remediation[9].
- Hydrogen Peroxide Plus Iodine: A study highlighted that hydrogen peroxide combined with iodine was particularly effective against multiple fungi, suggesting that while hydrogen peroxide alone can kill some fungi, its efficacy can be enhanced when used in conjunction with other agents[11].
- Vinegar: A diluted solution of vinegar can also be effective against certain types of fungi, particularly in household cleaning.
Treatments for Fungal Infections
If you suspect a fungal infection, treatment options include:
- Topical Antifungals: As mentioned above, these are suitable for localized infections.
- Oral Antifungals: For more extensive infections, medications like itraconazole and terbinafine may be prescribed [3][4].
- Intravenous Antifungals: In severe cases, especially in immunocompromised patients, intravenous treatment may be necessary.
How to Avoid Fungal Infections
Preventing fungal infections involves maintaining good hygiene and avoiding environments conducive to fungal growth. Here are some tips:
- Keep Skin Dry: Fungi thrive in moist environments; ensure your skin is dry after washing.
- Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Do not share towels, clothing, or grooming tools to minimize the risk of transmission.
- Wear Breathable Clothing: Choose loose-fitting clothes made of natural fibers to reduce moisture buildup.
- Use Antifungal Powder: Consider using antifungal powders in shoes or on feet to prevent athlete’s foot and other infections.
By utilizing effective antifungal agents and adhering to preventive measures, the risk of fungal infections can be significantly reduced.
Read More
[1] https://www.nature.com/articles/d43747-024-00026-6
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3757032/
[3] https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/fungal-infections-skin
[4] https://www.bupa.co.uk/health-information/healthy-skin/fungal-skin-infections
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6308925/
[6] https://www.upmc.com/services/division-infectious-diseases/conditions/fungal-infections
[7] https://www.pasteur.fr/en/research-journal/news/new-insight-body-s-response-killer-fungus
[8] https://www.nm.org/conditions-and-care-areas/infectious-disease/fungal-infections/treatments
[9] https://www.homecleanse.com/does-hydrogen-peroxide-get-rid-of-mold/
[10] https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/factcheck/2021/08/11/fact-check-list-hydrogen-peroxide-benefits-misleading/5551665001/
[11] https://bmcresnotes.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1756-0500-6-272
