Fungal Lung Threat: Beware Blastomycosis in the Wild

Public Health Sudbury and Districts has issued an advisory regarding blastomycosis, a serious fungal lung infection that can be fatal if untreated. The health authority is urging people to be aware of the risks as they spend more time outdoors, particularly in wooded areas and around soil.

Blastomycosis thrives in moist, acidic soils and rotting wood, meaning activities such as setting up hunting blinds near logs can pose an exposure risk. The fungal spores can be contracted by inhaling them, leading to lung infection, or through small cuts in the skin.

Symptoms of blastomycosis are often non-specific, including a persistent cough, low-grade fever, and joint pain. Health officials advise that if these symptoms persist and a cause isn't found, individuals should mention potential exposure to blastomycosis. The incubation period can be lengthy, ranging from three weeks to four months after initial exposure.

This year, six cases of blastomycosis have been recorded within the Public Health Sudbury and Districts' jurisdiction. This region, along with western Ontario and the areas surrounding the Great Lakes, is known to be prevalent for this fungal infection. Notably, dogs are also susceptible to contracting blastomycosis.