Climate change: shifting boundaries of fungal disease in Europe and beyond

Abstract

Climate change is altering ecosystems worldwide. While shifting environmental conditions are complex, it has been hypothesised that the impact of climate change is directly leading to increases in fungal infections across the globe. Rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns and extreme weather events are thought to be driving the adaptation of fungal pathogens to new climates, expanding their geographical range and posing a growing threat to human health and agriculture. This review highlights how climate change may impact key pathogens, including Candida auris , Candida orthopsilosis , Cryptococcus deuterogattii and resistant strains of Aspergillus fumigatus , which have emerged as significant public health concerns. Their spread is accelerated by globalisation, urbanisation and the intensifying use of agricultural fungicides, which further increase antifungal resistance. The growing prevalence of resistant strains and emergence of novel fungal pathogens is likely linked to anthropogenic climate change, underscoring the urgent need for action and for more robust data collection.