Hunters Urged To Be Aware Of Respiratory Infection Risk

Hunters are being cautioned to be on the lookout for symptoms of a respiratory infection that can be caught while out in the woods, especially near water.

Blastomyces is a fungus that grows in moist soil and in decomposing matter such as wood and leaves. When disturbed, the fungus spores become
airborne and if inhaled can cause an infection called Blastomycosis, and in some people, if untreated can lead
to death.

The Center For Disease Control say although most people who breathe in the spores don’t get sick, some people will develop symptoms like fever and cough, and the infection can sometimes become serious if not treated.

In most cases that involved death, the person had a weekend immune system.

Symptoms appear between 3 weeks and 3 months after coming in contact with the spores.

If you think you may have Blastomycosis, see your doctor and tell them you were around conditions that could have exposed you to the fungus.

An antifungal medication is usually prescribed to fight the infection.