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Fungal disease and the developing story of bat white-nose syndrome

August 1, 2012

Two recently emerged cutaneous fungal diseases of wildlife, bat white-nose syndrome (WNS) and amphibian chytridiomycosis, have devastated affected populations. Fungal diseases are gaining recognition as significant causes of morbidity and mortality to plants, animals, and humans, yet fewer than 10% of fungal species are known. Furthermore, limited antifungal therapeutic drugs are available, antifungal therapeutics often have associated toxicity, and there are no approved antifungal vaccines. The unexpected emergence of WNS, the rapidity with which it has spread, and its unprecedented severity demonstrate both the impacts of novel fungal disease upon naïve host populations and challenges to effective management of such diseases.

Publication Year 2012
Title Fungal disease and the developing story of bat white-nose syndrome
DOI 10.1371/journal.ppat.1002779
Authors David S. Blehert
Publication Type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Series Title PLoS Pathogens
Index ID 70039333
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse
USGS Organization National Wildlife Health Center