¡°Where they got the idea was the idea of this fungus known as Ophiocordyceps actually inducing sort of a change in ants.¡±

Experts say the threat from fungal 5pathogens is rising across the globe of the around four million fungal species. 19 were deemed to be the greatest 6threat to 7public health last year by the World Health Organization. Four of them critical. 

The first is Cryptococcus Neoformans, a pathogenic 8yeast that lives in soil. People can 9inhale it, but most don¡¯t get sick. In most cases, it only affects those with a 10suppressed immune system. 

Next, Candida Auris. It¡¯s a yeast that can 11linger on surfaces and 12medical equipment. It can spread quickly from one person to another and has caused a growing number of hospital outbreaks around the world. 

Third, Aspergillus Fumigatus, a mold that can be found just about everywhere and may cause 13pulmonary disease in people with weakened immune systems, and could also cause allergic reactions or lung infections that might become serious and move to other 14organs. 

Finally, Candida Albicans. It lives in the mouth, intestines and skin. Bacteria in your body helps keep it in check, but if the system¡¯s 15off-balance, the yeast can overgrow and turn into an infection, rash or another condition and be can become severe. 

There are no vaccines to protect against these fungal infections. So, experts say one of the best defenses is to keep your immune system strong.