A northern Michigan resident has succumbed to a rare fungal infection.
Ian Pritchard, a 29-year-old chef from Harbor Springs, was diagnosed with blastomycosis and passed away weeks later, as confirmed by News 8’s media partners at UpNorthLive. He was initially hospitalized in November and later transferred to Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit.
According to an update on Pritchard’s GoFundMe page, he made the decision to come off life support and ultimately passed away on a Saturday evening. The fungal infection had caused irreparable damage to his lungs, leading to his decision. His family gave their consent for him to let go, recognizing his readiness.
The hope had been for Pritchard’s body to clear the infection so that he could be eligible for a lung transplant, which was reported by UpNorthLive previously.
Blastomycosis is caused by a fungus found in moist soil and decomposing matter. It can be contracted by direct inhalation of fungal spores and is not transmissible from person to person. Despite exposure, blastomycosis infections are infrequent.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends taking precautions when near moist or disturbed soil, as well as in wooded areas. This includes wearing personal protective equipment and avoiding activities that involve moving or disturbing soil during windy conditions.
Less than a year ago, a significant blastomycosis outbreak was linked to a sawmill in Escanaba, resulting in 118 infections and one fatality.
A GoFundMe account was set up to support Pritchard’s family with their travel expenses to and from Detroit, and any remaining funds will contribute towards his funeral costs. The fundraiser had surpassed $18,000 as of Monday morning.