TIL of “Chicago disease” #blastomycosis a fungal infection people and pets inhale from dirt, dead leaves or decaying wood. Of course I read this after digging in my garden moving around old cedar mulch. Lol

Looks like #respirators for gardening are a good idea for me, for pollen and #fungus.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blastomycosis

#Blastomycosis is spreading from South and Midwest. 
It’s rare, and can cause respiratory symptoms, fever and body aches in about half of the people who are infected from inhaling the Blastomyces spores. Most cases are mild, but if left untreated, blastomycosis can cause serious illness or death.

https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/rare-fungal-infection-popping-unexpected-part-us-rcna135323

A rare and deadly fungal infection has been detected in Michigan, affecting at least 10 people and killing two. The blastomycosis infection is caused by a fungus that lives in moist soil and wood. It can cause symptoms such as coughing, fever, muscle aches, and skin lesions. The infection is treatable with antifungal drugs, but it can be fatal if left untreated.

#FungalInfection #Michigan #Blastomycosis

https://edition.cnn.com/2023/05/01/health/michigan-fungal-infection/

An Escanaba, Michigan paper mill shuts down temporarily after an outbreak of #blastomycosis One person is dead and 90+ are confirmed or suspected to have the disease, which originates in moist soil and rotting wood and leaves.

This Freep story is pretty thorough.

https://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/2023/04/14/escanaba-paper-mill-closed-fungal-infection-outbreak/70114906007/

The mill is owned by #Billerud (a Swedish company) and recently received up to $200 million in state funding to modernize their product mix.

https://www.paper-world.com/en/newsdetail/billerud-michigan-governor-signs-legislation

#yooper