Deadly brain fungus cases rise fourfold in United States

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 15 Oct, 15:08 · Archive

Cases of a rare fungus that kills up to 70% of infected people have jumped fourfold in the United States in two years.

Cases of Cladophialophora bantiana, a rare fungus that infects the brain, have jumped fourfold in the United States over two years, according to research by the University of Washington and the CDC. The fungus kills 60 to 70% of infected people, even with aggressive treatment. Between January 2009 and July 2026, 48 confirmed cases were identified across 21 US states and Washington DC, with the highest numbers in California (six cases), Florida (five), Texas (five), and Pennsylvania (four).

Most infections are detected from brain samples, though some are found in lung tissue. The fungus creates abscesses of dead tissue and pus in the brain, causing swelling and neurological problems including vision and memory loss. Both immunocompromised patients and otherwise healthy individuals can be affected. Scientists believe the fungus spreads through inhalation or via open wounds, though relatively little is known about transmission.

The reason for the increase remains unclear, though global warming has been suggested as a possible factor. The CDC notes there is currently no federal tracking and surveillance of infections caused by the fungus, which may mean cases are being undercounted. Researchers highlighted the need for greater clinical awareness and suggested surgical removal alongside antifungal therapy as possible treatment options.

How it is being reported

• Deadly brain-infecting fungus on the rise in the USInfections affects the central nervous system and can be fatal in 60% to 70% of casesThe Mirror · 15 Oct, 14:49
• Deadly, brain-liquifying fungus is on the rise in the US — and scientists don’t know whyThe fungus kills up to 70% of the people it infects. It's still rare, but the CDC is warning cases of this infection have jumped four-fold in just two years.New York Post · 14 Oct, 15:29

In this story: CDC · University of Washington · California · Florida · Texas · Pennsylvania

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