A dangerous fungal infection has seeded its spores farther across the United States than previously assumed.
Blastomycosisis an infection brought on by a group of fungi called Blastomyces.
Symptoms are often respiratory and include fever, cough, muscle aches, and fatigue.
An illustration of Blastomyces dermatitidis fungi, a common cause of blastomycosis.Illustration: Kateryna Kon (Shutterstock)
But theres been some indication that the potential range of blastomycosis in the U.S. is larger than we think.
Of these cases, 30% were hospitalized as a result and four ultimately died from their infection.
So its certainly possible that the same is true for blastomycosis.
Clinicians should consider blastomycosis in patients with compatible signs and symptoms.
Standardized surveillance could also improve our understanding of exposures, risk factors, and clinical outcomes.
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