Keep blastomycosis on your radar

Lincoln County Health Department would like to remind community members of the risk of blastomycosis (or “blasto”). Although the risk of getting this fungal infection is low, every year there are individuals in Lincoln County who get blastomycosis. Lincoln County is in the top five counties for the highest incidence rate of blastomycosis in Wisconsin. Furthermore, from 2013-2022, 40 individuals in Lincoln County tested positive for blastomycosis, 21 of which ended up hospitalized.

The fungus that causes blastomycosis lives in moist soil with decaying wood and leaves. Wooded areas that are close to water are prime settings for the fungus to live. Only under exact conditions of humidity, temperature, and nutrition, can the fungus grow and produce spores that can be inhaled when soil is disturbed. With a warmer than usual late fall and early winter 2024, residents should be aware of the potential risk of conditions being favorable. People likely also spent more time outdoors due to the milder temperatures.

It is important to know that blastomycosis symptoms typically do not occur until 2-15 weeks after exposure. Symptoms can mimic other respiratory illnesses like the flu or acute bacterial pneumonia, making it difficult to diagnose. Usually, blastomycosis symptoms resemble those of a lung infection, but it can affect other body systems including skin and bones.

Blastomycosis symptoms may include:

•  Fever or chills
•  Cough
•  Shortness of breath
•  Chest or back pain
•  Feeling very tired
•  Skin sores that may look crusted and growing in size

About half of people infected will not have any symptoms. People with a weakened immune system or a chronic illness are more likely to show symptoms. Risk increases for those who participate in outdoor activities like farming, clearing brush, construction, riding all terrain vehicles, gardening, hiking, hunting, and camping.