Diversity and Distribution of Zoonotic Fungal Diseases in Africa: Multisectoral One Health Strategy is Crucial for Cost-Effective Preparedness and Prevention

Emerging zoonotic fungal diseases represent a significant public health challenge in Africa, highlighting the complex interplay between human, animal, and environmental health. This review examines the distribution of various medically important fungi with zoonotic potential, including Emergomyces, Blastomyces, Coccidioides, Cryptococcus, dermatophytes, Histoplasma, Sporothrix, Talaromyces, Paracoccidioides, Aspergillus, and Malassezia in Africa. The evidence suggests that many of these infections are underdiagnosed due to the lack of surveillance and diagnostic capabilities, particularly in immunocompromised populations. The rise in these fungal infections, often linked to increasing HIV prevalence and environmental factors, emphasizes the need for comprehensive public health strategies. Effective interventions should focus on enhancing surveillance, raising awareness, improving diagnostic capacity, and fostering collaboration across health sectors through a One Health approach to mitigate the risks associated with these emerging pathogens.