Govt. Update on Masks

[ss20ts]

Fungal lung infections? Is this something found only outdoors? That sounds awful.

Things like pigeon poo can breed fungus that can go to your lungs. I think it can happen with other types of manure as well? But it's usually pigeon.

But, regardless, inside you can do things like have HEPA filters in your A/C and/or buy stand-alone air purifiers to remove fungal spores from the air. So, yeah, if you're careful then it's something only going to be found outdoors.

Oh geez. That's gross and horrible at the same time.

---

As I already pointed out on this thread, I and other people wear masks outside because of allergies. In some areas of the country (including where I live), it is also recommended for certain populations to wear them in certain situations because of the risk of fungal lung infections. 

Fungal lung infections? Is this something found only outdoors? That sounds awful.

Its a thing in some areas of the Pacific Northwest where I live (we have lots of fungi in the NW, most of them are not infectious, but hikers and people working outdoors sometimes mask up/bandana up to prevent inhaling spores).


Valley fever is one that affects the southwest and drier areas of the west coast. It's caused by a fungus that lives in soil. Most people get allergy or flu-like symptoms if they develop an infection and get better on their own, but some people get really sick with permanent lung damage. It mostly affects agricultural workers, but there can also be outbreaks around dust storms.

Fungal infections like this aren't generally passed from person to person, but picked up from the environment. Usually people exposed to small amounts of these types of agents don't get sick. But small amounts can be an issue for some people, like the immunocompromised. But large amounts inhaled at once or over time may cause issues.

(Not a doctor, just enjoy learning about microbiology.)

Is this because of the rain? Like it causes fungus to grow like crazy? 

I had no idea this was a concern out West. I'm in the Northeast and don't know of anything like this here. This does sound pretty scary though since this can be really serious.