The answer is yes.
Oh no: no! no! no! no! Before we all freak out and decide to prepare for the Zombie apocalypse let’s take a deeper dive into this subject.
Cordyceps fungus, also known as the “zombie fungus” has been made popular due to the hit TV show, “The Last of Us” as seen on HBO.
Cordyceps is a type of parasitic fungus that can take over the brains and bodies of ants, ultimately leading them to their death.
This incredible, yet terrifying process of infection is known as “zombification,” and it can be a truly gruesome sight to witness.
The fungus is found mainly in the rainforests of South America, Asia, and Africa. It is a fascinating organism that has evolved to target specific species of insects, including ants, beetles, and caterpillars.
Like many molds and fungi, the Cordyceps fungus infects the insect host by releasing spores into the air. Once an ant breathes in the spores, the fungus takes over its body and mind.
The fungus first infects the ant’s brain, altering its behavior and causing it to become disoriented and confused. The ant then begins to wander aimlessly, often climbing high up on a plant or tree. The fungus then starts to grow and spread throughout the ant’s body, slowly taking over its nervous system, muscles, and organs.
Eventually, the ant becomes fully controlled by the fungus and dies. The fungus then sprouts from the ant’s body, releasing new spores into the air to infect more ants and continue the cycle of zombification.
While the process of zombification is terrifying to witness, it is important to note that Cordyceps fungus only affects insects and not humans.
However, the fungus has been studied for its potential health benefits to humans, including its ability to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.
In recent years, there has been a lot of interest in the potential applications of Cordyceps in medicine. Researchers are studying the fungus to better understand its medicinal properties and to develop new treatments for a variety of different diseases.
One of the most promising areas of research involves the use of Cordyceps to treat cancer. Studies have shown that Cordyceps may be able to help boost the immune system and improve the body’s ability to fight off cancer cells.
In addition to its potential medical benefits, Cordyceps is also being studied for its potential use in agriculture. Researchers are exploring the possibility of using Cordyceps to control pests and improve crop yields, which could have a significant impact on global food security.
This is all very similar to mold having very positive health ramifications: the antibiotic, penicillin, one of the first and still one of the most widely used antibiotic agents, which derived from none other than the mold, Penicillium.
Yet in its natural colonized form, Penicillium can release a mycotoxin (mycotoxins are toxic substances produced by certain types of fungi) and this can cause serious negative health effects.
Cordyceps fungus can also pose a serious threat to human health through the production of these poisonous substances.
Exposure to mycotoxins can occur through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact with contaminated materials.
Mycotoxin Exposure Symptoms
Symptoms of mycotoxin exposure can include respiratory problems, skin irritation, nausea, vomiting, and liver damage. Long-term exposure to mycotoxins can also increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer.
Many types of molds that can be harmful to humans, including Stachybotrys (Black Mold) and Aspergillus (Normally a white or yellow colored mold).
Mold is a common problem in many households, and it can be caused by a variety of factors, including high humidity levels, poor ventilation, and water damage. Many molds can cause serious health problems, especially for individuals with allergies or weakened immune systems.
Stachybotrys, also known as “black mold,” is one of the most dangerous types of mold. It thrives in moist environments and can grow on materials such as drywall, ceiling tiles, and insulation. It is very important to have black mold removed by professionals.
Exposure to Stachybotrys can cause a range of symptoms, including respiratory problems, headaches, fatigue, and skin irritation. Prolonged exposure can lead to more serious health problems, such as chronic lung diseases and neurological issues.
Aspergillus is another type of mold that can be harmful to humans. It is commonly found in household dust and can grow on food, plants, and other organic materials. Exposure to Aspergillus can cause a range of health problems, including allergies, asthma, and infections. In some cases, Aspergillus can cause serious infections in individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or organ transplants.
Mold Remediation & Removal
While the idea of a zombie mold may be terrifying, the reality is that everyday molds like Stachybotrys and Aspergillus can be just as concerning. If you suspect that your home may have a mold problem, it is important to take action right away.
Hiring a professional mold remediation company like Mold Solutions out of Clearwater, Florida can help ensure that the problem is properly addressed and that your home is safe for you and your family.
Mold Solutions is a company that specializes in mold remediation and removal. We have the expertise and equipment necessary to identify the type and extent of the mold problem in your home and develop a customized plan for removing it.
Mold Solutions uses advanced techniques like air sampling, moisture mapping, and thermal imaging to identify the source of the mold and ensure that it is properly removed. And not only do we do free environmental consultations, we team up with the leading mold inspectors in Tampa Bay to come up with a game plan to solve some of the toughest mold problems.
One of the key benefits of hiring a professional mold remediation company is that they can help prevent the mold from spreading. Mold spores can easily become airborne and spread throughout your home, making the problem worse.
Professional mold remediation companies like Mold Solutions use advanced techniques like negative air pressure to contain the mold and prevent it from cross contaminating other areas of your home.
Another benefit of hiring a professional mold remediation company is that they can help ensure that the mold is properly removed. Simply wiping away visible mold may not be enough to fully remove the problem and in fact may make the problem way worse.
Mold remediation professionals use specialized equipment and techniques to remove mold at its source, ensuring that it does not return.
In conclusion, while the concept of a zombie mold like Cordyceps may seem like something out of a horror movie, the reality is that everyday molds like Stachybotrys and Aspergillus can be just as frightening. If you suspect that your home may have a mold problem, it is important to take action immediately.
Hiring a professional mold remediation company like Mold Solutions out of Clearwater, Florida can help ensure that the problem is properly addressed and that your home is safe for you and your family. Don’t let mold “zombify” your home—contact Mold Solutions today to schedule a consultation.
