Eden Lee 8L

Blastomyces dermatitisDescription : Blastomyces dermatitis is a fungus which causes blastomycosis.

Where its found: Blastomyces dermatitis lives in damp and moist soil, as well as decomposing organic matter such as rotting wood and leaves. The most high risk of this fungus is in infected or dirty soil.

Symptoms of infection: Blastomyces dermatitis enters the body through the lungs, where any possible infection starts due to the inhalation of the airborne fungus. Not everyone can get sick, however, those who do get symptoms similar to the flu, and the infection can be serious if not treated promptly. Symptoms appear 3-15 weeks after exposure, showing up with fever, chills, cough, muscle aches, joint pain, and chest pain. In serious cases, the bacteria can spread to other parts of the body.

Treatments/precaution:Anyone can get infected by Blastomyces dermatitis, however, the chances are increased by some medical conditions like diabetes. This fungus is most common in North, Central and South America and native/common in the Southeast and Midwest of the United States. People who live in more woody areas have a higher chance of getting infected by the fungus.

Blastomyces dermatitis can be treated with anti fungal creams and medicines prescribed by the doctor.