Daijiworld Media Network – Geneva

Geneva, Apr 3: The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised alarms over the increasing threat posed by drug-resistant fungal infections, calling it a growing global health concern. In its first-ever report on diagnostic tools and treatments for invasive fungal infections, released on April 1, the WHO highlighted the urgent need for enhanced research, surveillance, and innovative treatment options.

According to the WHO, common fungal infections such as Candida, which causes oral and vaginal thrush, are becoming increasingly resistant to existing drugs. The situation is particularly dire for severely ill patients and those with weakened immune systems, including cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, people living with HIV, and organ transplant recipients.

“Invasive fungal infections threaten the lives of the most vulnerable, but countries lack the treatments needed to save lives,” stated Dr Yukiko Nakatani, WHO Assistant Director-General for Antimicrobial Resistance ad interim. She emphasized that the lack of adequate fungal testing facilities, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, leaves many patients undiagnosed and untreated.

The WHO report categorized certain fungi under a ‘critical priority’ list due to their high mortality rates, some reaching as high as 88%. The agency expressed concern over the stagnant antifungal drug pipeline, with only four new treatments approved over the past decade. Presently, nine antifungal drugs are in clinical development, but only three have reached phase 3 trials, indicating an alarming gap in research and availability.

Current antifungal treatments are often associated with severe side effects, drug interactions, and lengthy hospital stays. Children, in particular, have limited treatment options. The WHO has urged for investments in developing safer, more effective medications and enhancing diagnostic capabilities, especially in resource-poor settings.

While commercially available tests for fungal infections exist, they require sophisticated laboratories and skilled personnel, making them inaccessible to many low- and middle-income countries. Additionally, inadequate awareness among health workers about fungal infections and their growing drug resistance continues to hamper timely diagnosis and treatment.

The WHO’s report serves as a clarion call for global stakeholders to prioritize research, enhance diagnostic infrastructure, and promote innovative therapies that strengthen patients’ immune responses.