It’s not uncommon for people to be unfamiliar with an infection known as histoplasmosis. However, homeowners should consider the subject since this health concern can result from a bat infestation. Below is a brief introduction to histoplasmosis and how it can affect your family.

What All Homeowners Should Know About Histoplasmosis

What Is It?

Histoplasmosis is a noncontagious fungal infection caused by breathing in spores of the Histoplasma capsulatum fungus. The infection affects humans and household pets, including cats and dogs. In rare cases, it can also affect other animals. 

Symptoms typically appear three days to three weeks after exposure. Some cases have symptoms so mild that they might go unnoticed. However, more serious reactions result in coughing, fever, chills, headache, fatigue, and muscle aches.

Chronic histoplasmosis can lead to a bloody cough, and the infection mimics symptoms of tuberculosis. It can also affect the mouth, liver, skin, central nervous system, and adrenal glands. A severe infection, left untreated, can be life-threatening.

How Is It Transmitted?

Histoplasma capsulatum is often found in bird and bat feces. Spores take to the air when an area containing the waste is disturbed, such as during building demolition or home renovation. It enters the body through the lungs after being inhaled, and spores attach themselves to the lower airway and begin to multiply.

The infection may remain localized in the lungs, where it causes a dry cough, chest pains, and breathing difficulty. However, it may also spread to other areas of the body through the bloodstream and lymphatic system. Signs of the latter may include loss of appetite, fever, mild depression, and sudden weight loss.

If you're experiencing a bat infestation, contact Batman Enterprises in Milford, OH. This pest removal company serves Hamilton and Clermont counties and the Greater Cincinnati area. They specialize in bat exclusion and removal, and also offer guano removal for when a bat infestation has left behind a mess. Learn more about these professionals on their website, or call (513) 600-3079 to speak with a friendly representative.