Could the 'zombie fungus' from 'The Last of Us' exist in real life?

Climate change is increasing fungal infections

'Zombie fungus' on wall.
The fungus featured in the TV show and video game is based on a real fungus called Ophiocordyceps unilateralis that affects ants
(Image credit: Liane Hentscher/HBO)

HBO's TV series "The Last of Us" shows a world ravaged by a "zombie fungus" that has the ability to infect and control people's minds. While human mind–controlling fungi do not yet exist in real life, other species are at risk. Plus, fungal infections in humans are on the rise and expected to worsen as temperatures continue to warm.

Is there such a thing as a 'zombie fungus?'

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Devika Rao, The Week US

 Devika Rao has worked as a staff writer at The Week since 2022, covering science, the environment, climate and business. She previously worked as a policy associate for a nonprofit organization advocating for environmental action from a business perspective.