MADISON, WI (WTAQ) – State health officials now say there are 13 confirmed cases of blastomycosis connected to the Little Wolf River in Waupaca County.
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services issued a statement Friday saying that another 13 cases are probable. Officials believe exposure happened starting with Memorial Day weekend and continued at least through July.
DHS says they anticipate more cases to be confirmed.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, blastomycosis lives in soil and decaying organic matter, like leaves and wood. When the soil is disturbed, the fungal spores become airborne. Breathing in those spores can cause people to become ill.
Health officials say if you’re experiencing symptoms of blastomycosis and you visited the Little Wolf River during the estimated exposure time, to contact your health provider.
Symptoms include fever, cough, muscle aches, and fatigue, which may progress to weight loss, chest pain and a persistent cough.
DHS will be updating cases numbers weekly on it’s website.
