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Histoplasmosis Facts Page 3 of 3 <br /> r7 J <br /> How common is histoplasmosis? <br /> Infection with histoplasmosis is common, but the disease is rare. As many as 80 percent of persons <br /> living in U.S. areas where the fungus is common have a positive skin test, meaning they have had the <br /> infection in the past. However, most of these people do not have a history of histoplasmosis symptoms. <br /> Is histoplasmosis an emerging infectious disease? <br /> Yes. Histoplasmosis is on the rise, mainly because of the growing number of persons with weakened <br /> immune systems. These include persons with HIV infection, those who have had a bone marrow or <br /> organ transplant, and those receiving chemotherapy for cancer. <br /> How can histoplasmosis be prevented? <br /> • It is not practical to test or decontaminate all areas that are known to be or might be contaminated <br /> with the histoplasmosis fungus, but these steps can reduce the risk of exposure: <br /> • Avoid areas where the fungus might be growing, especially areas with accumulations of bird or <br /> bat droppings. The fungus often grows around old chicken houses, in caves and other areas where <br /> bats live, and around starling and blackbird roosts. <br /> • Avoid disturbing accumulations of bat or bird droppings, and minimize exposure to dust in <br /> potentially contaminated sites. Before stirring up the soil, spray the area with a mist of water. <br /> • When working in high-risk areas, wear disposable clothing and a dust mask that covers the nose <br /> and mouth. <br /> This fact sheet is for information only and is not meant to be used for self-diagnosis or as a substitute for <br /> consultation with a health-care provider. If you have any questions about the disease described above or <br /> think that you might have a fungus infection, consult a health-care provider. <br /> Return to Infectious Facts Index <br /> _Return to DHPE Main Page <br /> http://www.dhpe.org/infect/histo.html 5/23/2008 <br />