CDC study flags mold infections as an underrecognized hospital threat

A first-of-its-kind CDC-led study in four Atlanta-area hospitals found about 450 invasive mold disease cases from 2020–2024, with roughly a third of patients dying in the hospital, suggesting these infections may be underappreciated. The researchers estimate rates of 3–5 cases per year per 100 inpatient beds, higher at large academic centers, and note exposure can occur in hospitals or after disasters. The findings imply climate-change–driven increases in mold exposure could raise future risk and highlight the need for better surveillance and understanding of local patterns.