Addressing Critical Fungal Pathogens Under a One Health Perspective: Key Insights from the Portuguese Association of Medical Mycology
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Fungal infections have emerged as a significant public health concern, especially with the increasing incidence of severe mycoses caused by pathogens such as Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida auris, Candida albicans, and Cryptococcus neoformans. These fungi, listed as critical priorities by the World Health Organization, pose a heightened risk due to rising antifungal resistance and their severe impact on immunocompromised individuals. This article, coordinated by the Portuguese Association of Medical Mycology, highlights the importance of adopting a One Health perspective to address fungal threats comprehensively. Drawing on interdisciplinary collaboration, the association aims to foster greater awareness, improve diagnostic capabilities, and stimulate research and public health policies in Portugal but also at global level. The paper outlines key strategies for surveillance, prevention, and innovation in fungal diagnostics and therapeutics. Moreover, it emphasizes the urgent need for national coordination and international cooperation in managing fungal infections, advocating for integrative approaches that link human, animal, and environmental health. By presenting a consolidated overview of current challenges and future priorities, this work seeks to enhance preparedness and response mechanisms in the face of escalating fungal threats.
Source: Mycopathologia
Authors: R. Sabino, F. Antunes, R. Araujo, A. R. Bezerra, J. Brandão, C. Carneiro, A. Carvalho, D. Carvalho, I. C. Conceição, F. Cota Medeiros, C. Cruz, E. Duarte, S. Holum, O. Matos, F. Maltez, A. Mendonça, G. Moura, A. Pereira, C. Fortuna Rodrigues, P. Teixeira, S. R. Valdoleiros, C. Veríssimo, C. Viegas
Institutions: University of Lisbon, Laboratório Associado TERRA, Universidade do Porto, i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, University of Aveiro, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Universidade Politécnica de Setúbal, University of Minho, Unidade Local de Saúde Santa Maria, Hospital SAMS, Laboratório de Microbiologia, Unidade Local de Saúde de São José, Hospital Curry Cabral, University of Évora, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário, Unidade em Ciências Biomoleculares Aplicadas, Unidade de Investigação em Toxicologia & Uma Só Saúde, Hospital de São João, Universidade Politécnica de Lisboa, Centro de Investigação em Saúde e Tecnologia, Comprehensive Health Research Centre
Language: English
Subfield: Infectious Diseases
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,190
Award: G4313043414
OpenAlex ID: W4413258349