Exploring the Diversity and Distribution of Medico-Veterinary Fungal Diseases in Africa: Harnessing a Multisectoral One Health Strategy for Cost-Effective Prevention and Preparedness

The diversity and distribution of medical and veterinary-relevant fungal diseases in Africa underscore the critical need for a multisectoral One Health strategy to enhance cost-effective preparedness and prevention. This review explores the geographic spread and epidemiology of key medical and veterinary fungi, including Emergomyces, Blastomyces, Coccidioides, Cryptococcus, Dermatophytes, Histoplasma, Sporothrix, Talaromyces, Paracoccidioides, Aspergillus, and Malassezia. Evidence indicates that many of these infections remain underdiagnosed and underreported, especially in vulnerable immunocompromised populations, due to limited surveillance, diagnostic capacity, and awareness. The increasing prevalence of these diseases, often in tandem with rising HIV rates and environmental changes, highlights the urgent need for coordinated efforts across human, animal, and environmental health sectors. Implementing comprehensive, multisectoral interventions—focused on enhancing diagnostic capabilities, public awareness, surveillance, and cross-sector collaboration—is vital for effective prevention and control of these emerging fungal threats in Africa.