Is aspergillosis infection contagious between people?

No, aspergillosis infection is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from person to person, nor between humans and animals. Aspergillosis infection occurs as a result of inhaling microscopic Aspergillus spores found in the surrounding environment, both indoors and outdoors [2]. This fungus lives naturally in soil, decaying vegetation, compost piles, stored grain, and other decaying organic matter [3].

Most people inhale Aspergillus spores daily without becoming ill, because a healthy immune system is capable of dealing with them [1]. However, some groups are more susceptible to infection and the development of the disease, especially those with weakened immune systems or pre-existing lung diseases [2].

How does aspergillosis infection occur?

Aspergillosis infection occurs when a person inhales fungal spores from the air. These spores are widely prevalent in the natural environment [1]. In most cases, these spores do not cause any health problems for people with a healthy immune system [2]. However, if the immune system is weak or there is a lung health issue, the spores may be able to grow and cause various types of infection.

Who is most at risk?

People most at risk for aspergillosis infection are those with weakened immune systems or chronic lung diseases. These groups include:

• Immunocompromised patients: Such as individuals who have undergone organ or stem cell transplants, are receiving high doses of corticosteroids, are undergoing cancer chemotherapy, or have HIV/AIDS [3].
• Lung patients: Such as those with asthma, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, or those who have lung cavities due to previous illnesses like tuberculosis [1].

The severity of symptoms and the type of infection vary depending on the immune system status and the general health of the infected person [2].

Types of aspergillosis infection

There are several types of aspergillosis infection, each with different symptoms and treatments:

• Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA): This is an allergic reaction to the fungus, typically affecting people with asthma or cystic fibrosis. Symptoms include wheezing and coughing [1].
• Invasive Aspergillosis: This is the most serious form, usually affecting people with severely weakened immune systems. The infection typically starts in the lungs and can spread to other organs in the body [2]. Symptoms include coughing, shortness of breath, fever, and chest pain [2].
• Aspergilloma (Fungal Ball): This is a collection of fungal hyphae that grows in pre-existing lung cavities caused by previous diseases like tuberculosis [3]. It may cause no symptoms or cause a cough, and sometimes coughing up blood [2].

Prevention and treatment

Since Aspergillus spores are ubiquitous, it may be difficult to completely avoid inhaling them [2]. However, individuals with weakened immune systems can take steps to reduce the risk of infection, such as avoiding areas where spores might be highly concentrated (e.g., construction sites or compost piles).

Treatment for aspergillosis depends on the type and severity of the infection. Treatment often includes antifungal medications [1]. For cases of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, corticosteroids may be prescribed in addition to antifungals [1]. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove an aspergilloma if it is causing bleeding [3].

If you have a weakened immune system or lung disease and develop symptoms such as a persistent cough, shortness of breath, fever, or chest pain, it is important to consult a doctor for an evaluation (Arabic). Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential, especially in cases of invasive aspergillosis, which can be life-threatening if not treated [3].

Medical references

• Aspergillosis
• Aspergillosis Basics
• Aspergillosis