Also called “Ohio River Valley Fever”

Histoplasma capsulatum is the fungal cause agent for this illness

This fungus is found in the soil, in the form of mold. 
Specific soil with increased amount of birds and bats droppings are a larger risk to cause infection 

It becomes airborne and can enter the airways through the lungs.

Can be found worldwide. Seen typically in climates that are tropical and/or near river valleys.

In the United States that would be around the Mississippi and Ohio river valleys.

Many are exposed to the fugal infection but only a small portion have adverse symptoms.

In a very small percentage of individuals – this fungus causes a more widespread infection
This may include infection in the blood, (brain), and other organs.

This is referred to as “disseminated histoplasmosis”

HIV patients and other immunocompromised patients are at increased risk of “disseminated histoplasmosis”

Symptoms:

   -  Most patients have no symptoms
   -  Cough
   -  Fever
   -  Chills
   -  Headache
   -  Fatigue
   -  Weakness
   -  Some experience pneumonia with symptoms for months on end.
   -  Joint pain
   -  Chest pain
   -  Mouth sores

Treatment:

Antifungal medication
   -  Itraconazole
   -  Ketoconazole
   -  Amphotericin