“The Last of Us” apocalypse is not realistic, but rising threat of fungal pathogens is - EurekAlert

In the post-apocalyptic world of “The Last of Us,” a rapidly spreading pandemic—in which a mutated Cordyceps fungus morphs people into zombie-like “infected”— besieges humanity.

As the world contends in real life with a pandemic of its own, viewers may be left wondering if the HBO series’ grim portrayal of a different kind of outbreak could become an off-screen reality.

The spores of the Cordyceps seize control of the mind and motor functions of their host, causing erratic behaviors and spurring the insect to seek a higher location—where more sunlight and warmth create prime reproductive conditions for the fungus.

For instance, actress Gwyneth Paltrow’s lifestyle website posted a [widely criticized] recipe for 200-dollar breakfast smoothie that included Cordyceps.

“Antibiotic use is a huge risk factor for fungal and yeast infections because they essentially wipe out all of the good bacteria, so fungi can start to take over,” he explains.

And when asked if health care settings are prepared for larger C. auris outbreaks, he says, “Probably not.” He hopes that researchers can develop new, more effective anti-fungals over time, but unfortunately, there is currently little incentive for drug companies to invest.