Gardening products such as compost, soil, and flower bulbs had high concentrations of drug-resistant fungus, according to samples taken from US shops. If someone with a compromised immune system inhales spores from the identified fungal species, it could be extremely harmful. When gardening, the risk may be reduced by donning an N-95 mask.June 26, 2024, a Wednesday (HealthDay News) — According to recent research, a difficult-to-treat, drug-resistant fungal infection can be as close as your neighborhood garden center.
High concentrations of fungi resistant to drugs were discovered by researchers at the University of Georgia (UGA) in Athens in compost, soil, and flower bulbs that were sold at well-known stores.One pleasant, stress-relieving hobby is gardening. However, research main author Marin Brewer expressed concern for those who might not be aware that handling waste and flower bulbs could be harmful to their health. In UGA’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, she has the position of professor.
Aspergillus fumigatus is the fungus in concern; it naturally occurs in soil and can cause disease if inhaled. Individuals with robust immune systems should be able to resist the fungus; however, if they come into contact with a strain that has developed resistance to certain antifungal medications, those with weakened immune systems may become gravely ill or even die.Individuals with HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, cystic fibrosis, type 2 diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may be immunocompromised. Individuals who use immunosuppressants, such as cancer patients or those who have received an organ transplant, are also susceptible.
Health professionals are already aware of A. fumigatus: The fungus has been identified as a serious hazard to health by the World Health Organization, and it is believed that over 2 million people worldwide are affected.Aspergillomas, or “clumps” in the lungs, can be brought on by Aspergillus fumigatus even in healthy individuals. While some people get clear on their own, others might require antifungal medications.Brewer and colleagues’ team examined a range of food products sold at big box retail stores between 2019 and 2021, as well as store-bought compost, soil, and flower bulbs.
More than 90% of the more than 500 distinct strains of A. fumigatus identified in the items were identified in flower bulbs, soil, compost, and peanuts.The team reported that drug-resistant strains were discovered on flower bulbs, such as tulips, gladioli, daffodils, and dahlias, as well as in manure-based soil and compost. Brewer stated in a UGA news release that “we found dozens of strains of resistant fungi in just 1 gram of compost.” Our research suggests that a single bag of compost may contain tens of thousands of possibly resistant bacteria.
Brewer’s team advises anyone with a weakened immune system to wear N-95 masks when gardening since fungus spores can be inhaled.Brewer continued by saying that she will forgo her plans to sow flower bulbs and will stay away from commercial compost in light of the findings.The agricultural industry’s usage of antifungals is a major contributing factor to drug resistance. The UGA team has been informed by industry officials that businesses are making efforts to lessen the threat. The results were just released in the journal. Applied and Environmental Microbiology. Visit the to learn more about fungal infections.Cleveland Clinic.