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'Kind of the first time we've had an estimate like this': first CDC study on mold finds it's much deadlier than we thought
Fortune • • health
Key Points:
- Researchers identified about 450 cases of invasive mold disease in Atlanta-area hospitals over five years, with roughly one-third of patients dying during hospitalization, according to a CDC study.
- The study, the first of its kind to estimate local incidence, highlights the potential for increased fungal infections due to climate change-related natural disasters and a growing vulnerable elderly population.
- Invasive mold infections primarily affect individuals with weakened immune systems and can be contracted through inhalation of spores or contaminated medical equipment.
- Hospitals can expect 3 to 5 cases annually per 100 inpatient beds, with higher rates in large academic hospitals treating more complex illnesses, though exposure locations were not determined.
- Experts emphasize the importance of similar research in other U.S. regions to better understand the national scope of invasive mold diseases and assist hospital preparedness.
