What is Blastomycosis?

About Blastomycosis:

• It is an infection caused by a fungus of the genus Blastomyces.
• It is found in moist soil and decomposing wood and leaves in the mid-western, south-central and south-eastern states of the US.
• Transmission:
  • The microscopic spores from the fungus can get dispersed in the air and travel freely.
  • Human beings can contract blastomycosis by inhaling the spores.
  • It is not contagious between animals and people through the air.
• The symptoms of blastomycosis in animals are similar to the symptoms in humans.
• Symptoms: Fever, Cough, Breathing difficulty and muscle aches etc.
• Treatment: Itraconazole is a type of antifungal medication that is typically used to treat mild to moderate blastomycosis.

Q1) What are Fungi?

Fungi are a diverse group of organisms that include yeasts, molds, and mushrooms. They are a separate kingdom of living things, distinct from plants, animals, and bacteria.

Source: What we know about Blastomyces, the fungus that killed 1 & infected 100 at a Michigan paper mill  

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