Tag

Blastomycosis

All articles tagged with #blastomycosis

health1 year ago

CDC Warns of Rare Diseases Spread by Pet Dogs

The CDC has reported that pet dogs in New Jersey and Wisconsin have been linked to two rare diseases. In New Jersey, two dogs were infected with antibiotic-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, similar to a strain that caused a human outbreak linked to artificial tears. In Wisconsin, a fungal outbreak of Blastomyces affected both humans and dogs, with spores likely inhaled from disturbed soil. While direct transmission from dogs to humans is rare, the environments where dogs are exposed may also pose risks to humans.

health1 year ago

"Rapid Spread of Deadly Super Fungus in U.S. Forests"

A rare fungal infection called blastomycosis, caused by inhaling spores found in damp, woodsy areas like northern Michigan, has caused a recent outbreak in the state, resulting in over 120 cases and four deaths in 2023. While most people exposed to the spores don't get sick, those with compromised immune systems are at higher risk. The disease can be difficult to diagnose and can lead to serious illness, as seen in the case of a 29-year-old man who died after a months-long battle with the infection. Health officials urge people to seek medical attention if they experience unusual symptoms, especially those with weakened immune systems, and to be aware of the risks when spending time in wooded areas.

health1 year ago

"Deadly Fungal Infection Claims Lives of Michigan Chef and Man, Ravaging Lungs"

Ian Pritchard, a 29-year-old chef from Detroit, Michigan, contracted a severe fungal infection called blastomycosis, which left holes in his lungs and led to his hospitalization and eventual death. His family made the difficult decision to take him off life support after his condition deteriorated rapidly, and he passed away on February 2. The family expressed gratitude for the support received through a GoFundMe page set up to help with medical expenses.

health1 year ago

"Rare Fungal Infection Claims Lives of Michigan Men"

A Michigan man, Ian Pritchard, has died after battling blastomycosis, a rare fungal infection caused by the blastomyces fungus found in moist soil and decomposing organic matter. The infection had ravaged his lungs beyond repair, leading to his passing just days before his 30th birthday. Blastomycosis is not very common, with only 1 or 2 cases per 100,000 people each year, but it can be serious, especially for those with weakened immune systems. Prevention includes avoiding activities that stir up soil in places where the fungus is commonly found, as there is no vaccine available.

health1 year ago

"Escalating Spread of Rare Fungal Infection in Northcentral Wisconsin"

Blastomycosis, a rare fungal infection, is on the rise in northcentral Wisconsin, particularly in Lincoln County, due to the moist soil and leaves providing a habitat for the fungus. The infection can be contracted by breathing in fungal spores and can lead to serious health complications, requiring long-term treatment. Experts are urging residents to be aware of the risks and symptoms, as well as to seek immediate testing if they suspect they have been infected.

health1 year ago

"Tragic Loss: Michigan Chef Succumbs to Rare Fungal Lung Infection"

A 29-year-old Michigan chef died after battling blastomycosis, a rare fungal disease that "ravaged" his lungs. Ian Pritchard contracted the illness, which spread from his lungs to his central nervous system, skin, and joints. The infection, caused by breathing in spores of the fungus blastomyces found in moist soil and decaying wood, typically develops within two to 15 weeks and has no cure. Pritchard's family is in shock over their sudden loss, and a GoFundMe page has raised almost $20,000 for them.

health1 year ago

"Tragic Loss: Michigan Chef, 29, Succumbs to Rare Fungal Lung Infection"

A 29-year-old Michigan chef, Ian Pritchard, died after battling blastomycosis, a rare fungal disease that ravaged his lungs. The infection, contracted before Thanksgiving, spread to his central nervous system, skin, and joints. Despite efforts to raise funds for his treatment, Pritchard was taken off life support. Blastomycosis, caused by inhaling spores of the fungus blastomyces found in moist soil and decaying wood, has no cure but is treated with antifungal medications. The Pritchard family is grieving the loss of their son, remembering him as a good kid and talented chef.

health1 year ago

"Deadly Fungal Infection Claims Life of Michigan Chef at 29"

A 29-year-old chef from Michigan, Ian Pritchard, has died from a fungal infection called blastomycosis, which caused extensive damage to his lungs. The infection, likely caused by exposure to blastomyces fungus found in soil and rotting wood, led to his hospitalization and ultimately his passing. Despite efforts to eradicate the infection, including potential lung transplant, the fungus evaded treatment. The incident highlights the growing concern of fungal infections in non-endemic regions, with health officials warning that climate change may contribute to the spread of such infections.

health1 year ago

"Tragic Loss: Michigan Man Succumbs to Rare Fungal Infection"

A 29-year-old Michigan man, Ian Pritchard, passed away at a Detroit hospital after battling a rare fungal infection called blastomycosis. He had been receiving treatment since December and was taken off life support with his family by his side. The family had been raising money through a GoFundMe for medical expenses, which is now open to help with funeral costs. Blastomycosis is caused by a fungus found in moist soil and decomposing matter, mainly in the midwestern, south-central, and southeastern states of the US. Most people who develop symptoms will need antifungal treatment, and the infection is uncommon with yearly incidence rates of approximately ≤ 2 cases per 100,000 population in select US states.

health1 year ago

"Rare Fungal Infection Claims Michigan Man's Life"

A 29-year-old chef from Harbor Springs, Michigan, Ian Pritchard, has died after contracting a rare fungal infection called blastomycosis, which ravaged his lungs beyond repair. The infection, caused by a fungus found in moist soil and decomposing matter, is rare but can be deadly. Pritchard's family had hoped for a lung transplant, but he ultimately made the decision to come off life support. A GoFundMe page has raised over $18,000 to support his family and cover funeral expenses.

health1 year ago

"CDC Warns of Spread of Dangerous Fungal Infection in U.S."

The CDC warns that a dangerous fungal infection known as blastomycosis is spreading to new parts of the U.S., with reported cases expanding beyond its typical geographic range. Symptoms can be similar to a common cold or flu, but in severe cases, the infection can spread to other parts of the body and be fatal. While the infection is relatively rare, it's important for clinicians to be aware of it and consider it as a possibility when diagnosing patients with respiratory symptoms.

health1 year ago

"Emerging Spread of Deadly Fungal Infection in the US: Study Findings"

A rare fungal infection called Blastomycosis, typically found in the upper Midwest and Southeast, has been identified in Vermont, with symptoms often resembling pneumonia. The Vermont Health Department urges patients with pneumonia-like symptoms that do not improve with antibiotics to seek further evaluation. The infection, caused by fungi in moist soil and organic matter, poses a higher risk to individuals with weakened immune systems and pregnant women, and is treated with anti-fungal medications.

health1 year ago

"Unexpected Spread of Deadly Fungal Infection in the US: Study Findings"

A rare fungal infection called blastomycosis, typically found in the Midwest and Southeastern US, has been discovered in Vermont, prompting concern about its spread beyond expected regions. A recent CDC study found that Vermont had higher rates of blastomycosis than all but one of the states, with the highest number of cases reported in three north-central counties. Symptoms can take up to four months to appear, making diagnosis challenging, and the disease can be fatal. The Vermont Department of Health is seeking to add blastomycosis to the list of reportable conditions to improve surveillance. The infection, which can affect both humans and pets, is not contagious, but people and pets with weakened immune systems are at higher risk. The CDC urges clinicians to consider blastomycosis as a possibility when diagnosing patients.

health-medicine1 year ago

"Rising Incidence of Deadly Fungus with 20% Kill Rate in Unexpected US Locations"

A study suggests that blastomycosis, a deadly fungus with a 20% kill rate, may be more common in the US than previously thought, with Vermont showing a higher rate than four of the five states where it is tracked. The disease, caused by breathing in spores from rotten wood or leaf litter, can lead to deadly pneumonia and inflammation. The findings challenge assumptions about the disease's prevalence and call for increased awareness among clinicians. Last year, a paper mill outbreak in Michigan sickened over a hundred people, and a woman in Wisconsin died from the infection after being initially misdiagnosed.