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.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 2012 |
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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 |