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Histoplasmosis

 Just The Facts
What is Histoplasmosis?

Histoplasmosis is a disease caused by breathing in spores (reproductive structures) of a fungus called Histoplasma capsulatum.  It grows in soil. 

  What are the signs and symptoms?

Histoplasmosis mainly affects a person’s lungs, and it has many symptoms including:

  • a general ill feeling
  • fever, chest pain, dry or non-mucous cough
  • headache
  • loss of appetite
  • trouble breathing and hoarseness
  • joint and muscle pains, chills 
Most people will feel fine or a little sick.  People with weakened immune systems can become very ill. If symptoms do occur, they will usually start within 3 to 17 days, with an average of 10 days.  
How is it Spread?

It is not easily spread; it cannot be passed on from an infected person or animal to someone else. 

What can people do?
  • Mild cases are usually cured without treatment.  For severe cases, special antifungal medications are needed.
  • Avoid situations where material that might be infected can be breathed in.  This is very important if you have a weakened immune system.
  • When dusting, carefully wet a cloth with a water spray so the dust does not blow around
  • Call your doctor for early diagnosis
   
If you have any questions or concerns, please call the Health Information Line
at the Brant County Health Unit 519-753-4937 extension 259
 
 
Adapted from the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit Revised  |  08/2009
Last Updated ( Wednesday, 14 October 2009 )