Green Fungus Explained: Aspergillosis Symptoms, Causes, and What You Can Do to Prevent it

A 34-year-old patient from Madhya Pradesh reported symptoms of high fever and nose bleeding almost a month after fully recovering from COVID-19. Upon consultation, doctors found out that his newly developed symptoms were not COVID related and were, in fact, due to green fungus infection in his blood, sinuses, and lungs, according to reports by English Jagran.

Green Fungus Explained

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention explains that green fungus, or the Aspergillus is a common mold that causes Aspergillosis. Many breathe pores of Aspergillus every day without getting sick or showing symptoms. However, those with weakened immune systems, or lung diseases are at a higher risk of developing serious health problems due to Aspergillus.

There are more than 180 different types of green fungus, with more being discovered every day. Although, the National Organization for Rare Disorders state that most are harmless, some of these molds can cause allergic reactions or life-threatening disease in immunocompromised humans.

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Types and Symptoms of Green Fungus

There are several types of aspergillosis that cause health risks to patients. Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) occurs when green fungus causes inflammation in a person's lungs and causes allergic symptoms like wheezing and coughing. It is important to note that this type of green fungus does not cause infections.

Allergic Aspergillus sinusitis, also does not cause infections; however, it does cause inflammation in the sinuses, which develop symptoms such as drainage, headaches, and stuffiness.

Azole-Resistant Aspergillus fumigatus occurs when a species of the green fungus becomes resistant to specific medication used to treat patients.

Aspergilloma, on the other hand, occurs when a ball of green fungus grows in a person's lungs or sinuses and typically does not spread to other organs in the body.

Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis is an infection of green fungus that causes cavities in a person's lungs and can become a long-term condition. Fungal balls may also be present in the patient's lungs.

Different types of green fungus affect different groups of people. Generally, people with asthma, cystic fibrosis, tuberculosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, and those that have undergone organ transplants are more susceptible to aspergillosis.

How to Prevent Green Fungus Infection?

According to Cleveland Clinic, because of the prevalence of green fungus in the natural environment, it is difficult to fully avoid any exposure. The best alternative is to avoid locations with excessive mold and dust like compost piles and construction sites. People who have mold allergies or weakened immune systems should generally avoid activities like lawn mowing and gardening.

The NHS UK advises avoiding places where aspergillus mold can be found, like piles of dead leaves, and avoid activities involving close contact with dust or soil. It is best to close your windows if there is any construction work in your area. Green fungus infection is sporadic, meaning it can travel in the air. If going to dusty places is unavoidable, consider wearing an N95 mask and consider using air purifiers at home with HEPA filters.