Cases of the rare but deadly brain fungus Cladophialophora bantiana have risen sharply since 2023, according to University of Washington and CDC researchers. Between 2009 and July 2026, 48 confirmed cases were found across 21 states and Washington, DC, with eight in 2024 and 14 in 2025. The mortality rate is 60 to 70 percent, and how it infects people remains unknown.
Deadly Brain Fungus Cases Rise Sharply Since 2023
Source: WION