¿Fiebre alta persistente tras lavar verduras? Atención a hongos en casa

Expert Reviewer: Mo Dapeng, Chief Physician of the Neurointervention Center at Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Professor and Graduate Thesis Director.

Recently, the topic "Woman suffers from persistent high fever for 2 weeks after washing vegetables in a basement" went viral, raising concerns. Mrs. Zhao, 51, had been washing vegetables in a food factory basement for a long time, which resulted in a persistent high fever, chest pain, and cough with yellow sputum. She was eventually diagnosed with Candida pneumonia. Previously, in Hangzhou, Mrs. Shen developed a fever of 40°C after organizing a moldy closet, and after examinations, her lungs were found to be "covered" with white spots, being diagnosed with pulmonary aspergillosis.

Is it possible for fungi to "grow" in the lungs? What exactly happens? And how can we prevent it in our daily lives?

One. Ubiquitous fungal spores.

Fungal pneumonia is a lung inflammation caused by fungal infections, with the most common pathogens being Candida albicans, Aspergillus, and Mucor. These fungi are widely present in nature, especially in environments with high humidity and poor ventilation, where they thrive easily.

The process of infection from fungal pneumonia shows a clear "accumulation effect". Humid environments, such as basements, air conditioning filters, and humidifier tanks, provide a breeding ground for the proliferation of fungi, and the concentration of spores gradually increases over time. In such circumstances, if a person inhales spores for prolonged periods and without protection, the lungs, acting as "filters", will continuously accumulate fungi. When the number of spores exceeds the body's immune system's ability to eliminate them, or when the body's immunity declines, the fungi establish themselves in the alveoli and release toxins, causing pulmonary inflammation.

It is important to note that the initial symptoms of this type of infection are very similar to those of a common cold or bacterial pneumonia. If antibiotics are used solely based on the assumption of a bacterial infection, they will not only be ineffective but may also delay treatment and even damage internal organs.

Taking Candida albicans as an example, its spores can be transmitted through various routes such as air, water, and food. When a sufficient amount of spores is inhaled by the human body and immunity is lowered, it can lead to lung infection, also known as candidiasis pneumonia.

Mrs. Zhao in the report suffered a severe lung infection due to prolonged exposure to a humid and enclosed basement, inhaling fungal spores without protection.

Two, the "disaster zones" in the home.

Preventing fungal infections is key and focuses on reducing exposure and strengthening protection. In daily life, there are certain areas prone to mold proliferation that we should pay special attention to.

1. Bathroom

The corners of the bathroom, tile joints, shower curtain, faucet, and bathroom sealant are problematic areas. It is recommended to clean regularly with a mold detergent and maintain proper ventilation to prevent moisture.

2. Washing machine

The detection rate of mold in washing machine drums that have been used for more than six months is very high, and the longer they are used, the more spores accumulate. It is recommended to regularly clean the drum and avoid leaving damp clothes for extended periods.

3. Refrigerator seal

The door seal of the refrigerator should also be disinfected regularly, as molds resistant to low temperatures can cause allergies, and other molds can contaminate food. Additionally, it is important to periodically clean indoor plant pots and keep the soil dry; moist soils, decayed roots and branches, as well as homemade fertilizers, can foster mold growth.

Three, these categories of people should pay special attention.

Fungal pneumonia does not affect everyone equally; there are certain groups considered at high risk.

People with low immunity, including those who have been using hormones or immunosuppressants long-term, AIDS patients, and those undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy for cancer, have weakened immune defenses and are highly susceptible to fungal infections. Those suffering from chronic diseases such as diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and liver cirrhosis, among others, have compromised bodily functions, making them easier targets for fungal attacks.

The elderly population over 65 should also not be overlooked, as their ability to clear through the respiratory tract decreases. A lack of nasal hair reduces filtering function, making it easier for fungi to enter the lungs and cause infections. Furthermore, certain professional groups, such as those involved in food processing, storage logistics, or working in basements, present a significantly higher risk of contact with fungi due to prolonged exposure to high humidity environments.

Ventilation and dehumidification are crucial; awareness of protection is key, and timely medical attention is a guarantee. From the basement to the air conditioning filter, from the washing machine drum to the closet during the rainy season, these seemingly common scenes in daily life may hide fungal risks. Once we identify the true nature of these "invisible killers", we can better protect the respiratory health of ourselves and our families.