Sporothrix brasiliensis has a 30% fatality rate in cats when untreated.
Human infections cause painful skin ulcers and can spread to bones and lungs.
The CDC predicts U.S. cases within 5 years based on current spread patterns.
Pet owners, veterinarians, and healthcare workers face the highest exposure risk.
One infected cat can spread Sporothrix brasiliensis to 15+ humans through scratches or environmental contamination.