# ‘Mummy’s Curse’ warning as experts fear ancient remains could unleash deadly fungi worldwide

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/mummys-curse-warning-as-experts-fear-ancient-remains-could-unleash-deadly-fungi-worldwide/
- Published: 2026-11-15T16:28:48+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-15T17:26:04+00:00
- Original publisher: GB News (publisher lean: Right)
- Original article: https://www.gbnews.com/science/mummys-curse-warning-ancient-remains-deadly-fungi-worldwide
- Topics: Research, Science, World

## Key points

- Experts warn poorly stored mummies may carry harmful mould and bacteria.
- A study reviewed 128 online listings from 2015 to 2025.
- UK trade in human remains remains legal under stated conditions.

## Summary

Scientists warn that the online trade in mummified human remains could spread hazardous fungi and bacteria, particularly when poorly stored items are handled or sent through ordinary post. The warning matters because couriers, customs staff and buyers may not know what they are carrying, and people with weakened immune systems could be especially vulnerable.

A study by University of Staffordshire researcher Kirsty Squires examined 128 online sale posts from 2015 to 2025, finding heads, hands and feet were commonly advertised and often showed signs of decay. Mould spores can be released as dried tissue crumbles; the article also cites a 1973 case in which 10 of 12 researchers died after exposure to Aspergillus spores in a Polish royal tomb. A UK bill to ban online sales of human remains was dropped, and buying, selling and owning remains remains legal in the UK if they were not illegally obtained.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.