User:Rwright27/Histoplasmosis

Histoplasmosis in Workplaces
Histoplasma capsulatum is a fungus or mold commonly found across the United States. The fungus can grow in any materials corrupted with bird and bat droppings, but particularly manifests in soils5. Histoplasma can present itself as an occupational hazard through causation of the infection Histoplasmosis. Workers in a variety of fields can be exposed to the fungus as it can be released into the air through any activities which disturb soil3. Due to this, occupations at a higher risk for exposure include construction and demolition, landscaping, mining, quarrying, oil and gas extraction, and agriculture and forest industries3. Common symptoms in workers are similar to those in the general public, being mainly nonspecific respiratory symptoms like a cough. However, workplace exposures tend to lead to larger outbreaks than non-occupational histoplasmosis5. Though the disease is usually not severe, there have been instances of outbreaks among workers leading to death2.

These occurrences emphasize the importance of protective measures for workers. The CDC advises that those who work in potentially hazardous environments reduce their exposure as much as possible following the hierarchy of controls3. They recommend that any build up of bird and bat droppings should be avoided if possible, but if it is unpreventable various engineering, administrative and PPE controls can be implemented by the workplace1. The CDC also suggests that workplaces should be responsible for developing a safety plan, posting notice of the risk of exposure, disposing of any potentially contaminated materials, and providing proper education on the dangers associated with histoplasma3. Along with education, workers should also be provided adequate personal protective equipment. This can include a respirator, hooded coveralls, shoe coverings, gloves, and eye protection1.