EU Agencies Address Azole Fungicide Resistance in Aspergillus Fungi

On 30 January 2025, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and four other EU agencies published a report highlighting the risks associated with the use of azole fungicides, in particular their role in promoting resistance in Aspergillus fungi. The findings underscore the need for a coordinated response under the One Health approach to mitigate the growing threat.

Azole Fungicides and Antifungal Resistance

Azole fungicides are widely used in agriculture and horticulture to prevent fungal infections in crops. However, overuse has been linked to increased resistance in Aspergillus fungi, which can cause aspergillosis in humans. This airborne fungal infection primarily affects people with weakened immune systems, lung conditions, or those undergoing medical treatment. Resistance reduces the effectiveness of critical antifungal treatments, making infections more difficult to treat in both humans and animals.

Findings of the EU Agencies’ Report

The report was prepared by five EU agencies - the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), the European Environment Agency (EEA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) - with support from the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC). It highlights:

• The increasing occurrence of Aspergillus resistance due to prolonged exposure to azole fungicide.

• The impact on public health, as resistant Aspergillus strains can compromise antifungal treatments.

• The need for enhanced monitoring and control measures to limit the development of resistance.

The One Health Approach to Combating Resistance

The EU agencies emphasize a One Health strategy that integrates human, animal, and environmental health perspectives. Key recommendations include:

• Restricting unnecessary use of azole fungicides in agriculture.

• Improving surveillance and early detection of resistant Aspergillus strains.

• Promoting research into alternative treatments and resistance management strategies.

Next Steps for Policymakers and Stakeholders

The report calls for regulatory measures to balance the need of agriculture with public health priorities. EU agencies will continue to assess the risks and propose mitigation strategies to reduce resistance. Stakeholders, including policy makers, industry, and healthcare professionals, are urged to support sustainable agricultural practices.

The full report can be accessed here.