Each year, a median of 34 blastomycosis cases are reported in Minnesota. Recently these numbers have increased; in 2018, 58 cases were reported, according to the Minnesota Department of Health.
Blastomycosis is a rare fungal infection with a 10 percent fatality rate in Minnesota. Humans contract the infection after breathing in microscopic spores of the fungus Blastomyces dermatitidis, which thrives in moist soils and wooded areas. Health officials cited favorable environmental conditions as the likely reason for the rise in blastomycosis cases.
Symptoms usually appear three weeks to three months after inhalation of fungal spores and include fever, cough, night sweats, muscle aches/joint pain, weight loss, chest pain and fatigue. The infection can also spread to the skin, bones and joints, and central nervous system.
For more information on blastomycosis, click here.
More articles on population health:
CDC investigates cluster of lung diseases potentially linked to e-cigarettes
ADHD most prevalent among kids from Louisiana, Blue Cross claims study finds
FDA pushes for graphic cigarette warnings
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
