Did you know what Acute Lung Histoplasmosis is?
06 December 2016
It is a respiratory infection caused by inhaling the spores of the fungus “Histoplasma capsulatum”.
The fungus that causes histoplasmosis, is commonly found in soils in river valleys. The fungus reaches the soil mainly through the excrement of birds and bats entering the human body when it is inhaled.
Pulmonary histoplasmosis can be a serious disease in very young, elderly or weakened immune systems such as people with HIV or AIDS.
Symptoms may be similar to flu, fever, headache, fatigue, swelling in the lymph nodes, so it is important when you are living with HIV to take the retrovirals and stay under medical supervision to avoid the risk of acquiring histoplasmosis.
Histoplasmosis can spread, infecting other organs of the body and endangering our lives.
We can prevent pulmonary Histoplasmosis by avoiding contact with bird droppings or bats if you are in an area where the spore is common, especially if you have a weakened immune system. If you work in agriculture, gardening or construction you should wear masks.
It is advisable to consult your doctor if you have symptoms of histoplasmosis, in addition to remember that your body will be safe from this or other infections if you are adherent to your treatment.
Investigated by: W. Bolaños / Nicaragua
Source: http://1.usa.gov/25O57rz
