III Blastomycosis

Endemic in the southeastern and south-central states of North America. Outbreaks have been associated with occupational or recreational activities around streams or rivers with high content of moist soil enriched with organic debris and/or rotting wood. Infection is acquired via inhalation of the conidia, which transforms into the yeast form once in the lungs. After 30 to 45 days an acute pulmonary disease indistinguishable from bacterial pneumonia may occur.