ENVIRONMENTAL SOURCES OF FUNGAL PATHOGENS IN HOSPITAL SETTINGS

Abstract

Environmental reservoirs of fungal pathogens in hospital environments pose a significant threat to patient safety, particularly for immunocompromised individuals who are highly susceptible to invasive fungal infections. Common opportunistic fungi—such as Aspergillus spp. and Mucormycetes—thrive in diverse ecological niches, including soil, water systems, air ducts, dust, and decaying organic material. Their ubiquitous presence and ability to produce airborne spores contribute to high morbidity and mortality rates when infections occur within healthcare facilities. Understanding the ecological dynamics, transmission pathways, and environmental conditions that facilitate fungal proliferation is therefore essential for effective infection prevention and control in hospital settings.