Cryptococcus gattii

Cryptococcus gattii, also known as Cryptococcus neoformans var gattii, is a yeast-like fungus found in tropical and subtropical climates. If a human or animal breathes in spores or cells, it causes a lung infection called cryptococcosis which can be fatal if it spreads to the central nervous system and causes meningitis. In recent years it has made an appearance in British Columbia, Canada, and scientists are concerned this is linked to global warming. . From 1999 through 2006, 165 people in British Columbia contracted the disease, resulting in eight fatalities. The fungus also infects animals, such as dogs and dolphins.