The mummy's curse finally revealed: It's a deadly fungus
Mummies have fascinated people for centuries. The ancient Egyptians believed that preserving a body after death would allow the soul to live on in the afterlife. But while mummies are certainly impressive, they've also been associated with a dark and mysterious curse.
For years, people have speculated about the existence of a curse that strikes down anyone who disturbs the final resting place of an ancient mummy. However, a recent report by Big Think sheds new light on this infamous "mummy's curse."
According to the report, the "mummy's curse" may actually be a type of fungus called Aspergillus flavus. This fungus is commonly found in many tombs and can infect human lungs, causing severe health problems or even death.
In fact, a 1973 incident in Poland saw 10 out of 12 visitors to King Casimir IV's tomb die over a few months due to exposure to Aspergillus flavus. Since then, experts have been investigating the potential dangers of this fungus in tombs and other ancient burial sites.
More recently, experts have expressed concern over the potential for fungal exposure during traveling displays of mummified remains. This year, The Mummies of Guanajuato went on display in Mexico City, with some experts worried that the mummies weren't properly sealed off from the viewing public. Improper viewing events could lead to additional fungal exposure and potential health risks.
Is the Mummy's curse real or fake?
While the idea of a "mummy's curse" may seem far-fetched, some real dangers are associated with mummies and ancient burial sites. For one thing, many tombs and other burial sites are home to dangerous mold and bacteria that can cause severe illness or even death. This is why researchers and experts take great care when studying ancient artifacts and remains.

Another danger associated with mummies and ancient burial sites is the risk of exposure to toxic substances. Many ancient cultures used toxic materials like lead and mercury in burial practices, and exposure to these substances can have serious health consequences. Some researchers believe that exposure to lead and other toxins may have played a role in the decline of the ancient Egyptian civilization.
Despite the potential dangers associated with mummies and ancient burial sites, there is still much to be learned from these artifacts and remains. They provide valuable insights into the history and culture of ancient civilizations and can help us better understand the world we live in today.