The Real Science Behind The Last of Us
The polarizing finale of The Last of Us Season 2 has left many fans intrigued, especially regarding the fungal infection at the heart of the series. Adapted from the 2013 video game and inspired by its 2020 sequel, the show's portrayal of Cordyceps Brain Infection raises questions about its scientific accuracy. While the series presents a captivating narrative, it's important to separate fact from fiction.
The Cordyceps Conundrum
Cordyceps, the parasitic fungal mutation in The Last of Us, has been proven to infect arthropods, making them behave against their nature and promoting fungal reproduction. But can it do the same to humans? The answer is a resounding no, at least not yet.
Infecting Insects, Not Humans
The spores of Cordyceps attack insects, eat through their exoskeleton, and control their brains to act in the fungus's favor. However, these spores do not infect human brains or affect human behavior. The complex human nervous system, with its intricate cerebral mechanisms, prevents us from being hacked and hijacked by Cordyceps or any other mutated fungal strain.
Real-Life Fungi and Their Risks
While Cordyceps is a fascinating subject, it's important to understand the risks associated with real-life fungi. Yale School of Medicine Assistant Professor Scott Roberts clarifies that very few fungi or mold spread person-to-person, making a fungal pandemic unlikely. Candida auris, a relatively new fungus, spreads person-to-person, but it does not turn humans into mindless zombies.
Climate Change and Fungal Infections
Climate change could potentially lead to the kind of fungal infection seen in The Last of Us. As temperatures rise, certain fungal pathogens could evolve to subsist in higher temperatures, making humans more susceptible to infection. However, the Cordyceps Brain Infection as depicted in the show is highly unlikely in 2025.
The Role of Antibiotics
Overuse of antibiotics could weaken the immune system, potentially leading to fungal infections. However, even if fungal infections became as threatening as the Cordyceps in The Last of Us, they would not control our minds or turn us into enslaved, ambulatory meat puppets.
The Bottom Line
The Last of Us uses a fictional pandemic to raise awareness about the potential dangers of fungal infections. While creative liberties have been taken, the series emphasizes the need for more scientific research and understanding of the complex relationship between humanity and nature.
