Ancient tombs' hidden threats: Fungi overshadow bacteria
Archaeologists researching ancient tombs in Egypt are warning of a potential epidemic threat. They have discovered that pathogens responsible for infectious diseases such as tuberculosis or leprosy may survive in the tombs.
There is suspicion that, in some cases, ancient pathogens responsible for epidemics in ancient Egypt could pose a threat to modern explorers and associate these threats with the mysterious "curse of the pharaoh," which allegedly caused the deaths of researchers uncovering the tombs.
However, according to scientists, the health threat does not stem solely from bacteria and viruses, which could have contributed to the deaths of ancient Egyptians. Researchers have pointed to another, less obvious factor – fungi.
Tombs, with their limited air access, high humidity, and lack of food, provide an ideal environment for the growth of dangerous fungi. It is these microorganisms that may be responsible for health issues among researchers who are unaware of the danger.
An example of a fungus that could pose a threat is Aspergillus flavus, which has killed researchers. Although the threat in Egypt is not as severe as in Siberian regions, where dangerous viruses are released from permafrost, caution is still required.
Despite these potential threats, mummies and remains of ancient Egyptians are a valuable source of knowledge about human health from thousands of years ago. Paleopathological studies allow for discovering diseases that affected ancient Egyptians, such as cancers, heart diseases, or other cardiovascular ailments. Through these studies, we can better understand how the ancients dealt with health issues.
Archaeologists are calling for caution, especially regarding microbiological threats. Although research on ancient tombs is extremely valuable, precautionary measures must be taken to avoid dangerous health consequences associated with contact with pathogens or fungi present in the tombs.
