ESCANABA, MI (WTAQ-WLUK) – An Upper Peninsula paper mill has resumed operations after a blastomycosis outbreak among its workers.
WLUC reports the Escanaba Billerud Mill resumed operations Monday.
The mill began the process of idling on April 13 while health experts investigated the mill for a source of blastomyces spores.
During this time, employees underwent health evaluations consisting of a medical questionnaire and an antigen urine test. The mill also completed additional cleanup. The company said to date, no blastomyces spores have been found within the mill.
“The health and safety of our employees and contractors remains our top priority and we are focused on ensuring a safe return to the mill,” Billerud said in a statement on its website. “We continue to work closely with and follow the recommendations of local, state, and federal health experts as they continue to investigate this dynamic situation.”
To date, there have been 109 cases of confirmed or probable blastomycosis associated with the Escanaba Billerud Mill, according to public health officials. Thirteen out of the 109 total cases have been hospitalized. All 109 of the cases are either employees, contractors or visitors.
Blastomycosis is associated with a fungus that grows in moist soil and decomposing matter such as wood and leaves. People can become infected by breathing in fungal spores from the air. Blastomycosis does not spread from person to person or between people and animals.
Symptoms include cough (sometimes with blood), fever, chest pain, difficulty breathing, night sweats, fatigue, weight loss, muscle aches, and joint pain. The infection is treated with medication, but health officials say it is important to contact your health care provider and get a diagnosis early.
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