Radiolab
Up in Smoke
Aug 9, 2024
Leda Kobziar, a fire ecologist from the University of Idaho, joins the discussion to shed light on the unexpected effects of wildfires. She tackles the complex relationship between smoke, fungi, and human health, especially concerning recent outbreaks among burn patients. Leda reveals how smoke harbors microorganisms that influence both ecology and human biology. The conversation also delves into fire's dual role in nature – as a destroyer and a facilitator of life, challenging our perceptions of what smoke truly contains.
27:23
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Quick takeaways
- The outbreak of different mold infections in burn patients suggests wildfire smoke may introduce varied pathogens into hospital environments.
- Research reveals that smoke from wildfires contains living bacteria and fungi, prompting reevaluation of its ecological and health impacts.
Deep dives
The Unexpected Connection Between Wildfires and Mold Infections
An unusual increase in mold infections among burn patients at a California hospital prompted an investigation into the source of these infections. Typically, when outbreaks occur, all patients have the same pathogen due to shared environmental conditions. However, in this case, each patient was infected with different types of mold, raising questions about their origin. The examination of hospital air filters revealed they were overwhelmed with wildfire smoke, suggesting that fungal spores could be entering the hospital environment from outdoor conditions, potentially endangering premature burn victims.
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