Tennessee Faces Histoplasmosis Surge: 35 Cases, Some Critically Ill

Health officials in Tennessee have reported a significant outbreak of histoplasmosis, with over 35 cases confirmed in the Murray and Williamson County areas in just three months. The illness is caused by exposure to the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum.

State epidemiologists confirmed the concerning numbers on January 12, noting that some patients are critically ill and have required hospitalization. The average age of those affected by the fungus is 50.

The Histoplasma fungus is typically found in soil contaminated with bird or bat droppings. Exposure occurs when people inhale spores, though a single common source for this specific outbreak has not yet been identified.

While many infected individuals do not experience severe symptoms, histoplasmosis can lead to respiratory problems ranging from mild to life-threatening. Symptoms, which can mimic the flu, include fever, cough, headache, and chest pain, typically appearing three to 17 days after exposure.

Individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe complications, including long-term lung infections. Doctors can diagnose the infection through lab tests of blood or urine samples. Health officials recommend limiting soil-disturbing activities and wearing masks during high-risk outdoor endeavors to prevent exposure.