Fungi: Could We be The Last of Us?

Fungi are a diverse group of organisms that are often overlooked when it comes to potential threats to human health. However, as showcased by the popular video game and now hit TV series "The Last of Us," fungi can have a significant impact on the human population. In the game, a fungal outbreak decimates the population and threatens the survival of the remaining human population. But is this scenario a realistic possibility? 
 

Fungi play a critical role in the ecosystem and are present in almost every environment on Earth, including soil, water, and air. They are decomposers that help to break down dead organic matter and are an important component of the food chain. Many species of fungi are beneficial to humans, such as those used in the production of food, like bread and beer, and antibiotics. However, some species of fungi can cause serious health problems for humans, particularly for those with weakened immune systems. 
 

One example of a harmful fungal species is Cryptococcus neoformans, which can cause meningitis in people with compromised immune systems. Cryptococcus infections can be severe and can lead to life-threatening meningitis or pneumonia. Another example is Aspergillus flavus, which can produce toxic compounds known as mycotoxins that can contaminate food and cause illness in humans and animals. Mycotoxins can cause a variety of symptoms, including liver damage, stunted growth, and cancer. 
 

In recent years, there have been increasing concerns about the spread of fungal diseases in the medical community. The rise of immunocompromised populations, such as those with weakened immune systems due to cancer treatments or organ transplants, has led to an increase in the number of fungal infections. Additionally, the emergence of multidrug-resistant fungal infections, such as Candida auris, has become a growing concern. This species is particularly concerning because it can spread quickly in healthcare settings and is resistant to multiple classes of antifungal drugs, making treatment difficult. 
 

How to protect yourself from harmful fungi

It's important to note that while fungal outbreaks like the one portrayed in "The Last of Us" may be far-fetched, the potential threat that fungi can pose to the human population should not be underestimated. Fungi can cause serious health problems, and the emergence of multidrug-resistant fungal infections is a growing concern in the medical community. Healthcare providers and individuals should be aware of the potential risks posed by fungi and take appropriate precautions to prevent fungal infections. This includes practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently, and avoiding contact with contaminated surfaces or materials.  

One tool that has been developed to combat the spread of fungi is UV-C light technology, which is found in products such as PhoneSoap. UV-C light has been shown to be effective in killing various species of fungi, including those that can cause human infections. When used properly, UV-C light can penetrate the cell walls of fungi and disrupt their DNA, effectively killing the organism. 
 

PhoneSoap products use UV-C light technology to sanitize phones and other small items, making them a useful tool in preventing the spread of fungal infections. By regularly sanitizing phones with UV-C light, individuals can reduce their risk of exposure to fungi that may be present on the surface of their devices. 
 

In addition to its ability to kill fungi, UV-C light is also effective in killing other pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses. This makes PhoneSoap products an excellent tool for maintaining good hygiene and reducing the risk of exposure to a variety of harmful organisms. 
 

In conclusion, while the scenario portrayed in "The Last of Us" may be a work of fiction, the potential threat that fungi can pose to the human population is a real concern. Now fungi won’t just start turning us into Clickers, but they are ubiquitous and can cause serious health problems, particularly for those with weakened immune systems. It's important for healthcare providers and individuals to be aware of the potential risks posed by fungi and to take appropriate precautions to prevent fungal infections.