WHY IT MATTERS

A lethal fungal infection, Sporothrix brasiliensis, is spreading rapidly and could soon reach the U.S. Here's why this zoonotic threat matters today.

KEY TAKEAWAY

Sporothrix brasiliensis has a 30% fatality rate in cats when untreated.

KEY TAKEAWAY

Human infections cause painful skin ulcers and can spread to bones and lungs.

KEY TAKEAWAY

The CDC predicts U.S. cases within 5 years based on current spread patterns.

KEY TAKEAWAY

Pet owners, veterinarians, and healthcare workers face the highest exposure risk.

KEY FACT

One infected cat can spread Sporothrix brasiliensis to 15+ humans through scratches or environmental contamination.

SCIENCELOOP

A Deadly Fungus That Jumps From Cats to Humans Is Spreading Fast

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