(WXYZ) — A Michigan man, Ian Pritchard, has lost his life after a long battle with a rare fungal disease called blastomycosis. The infection, caused by a local fungus, tragically took his life just days before his 30th birthday. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Ian’s family and friends during this difficult time.Ian Pritchard was a chef in Harbor Springs. He spent 11 weeks fighting the infection, first in Petoskey and then at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. Unfortunately, the infection had severely damaged his lungs beyond repair, as mentioned in a post on the family’s GoFundMe page.Blastomycosis is an infection caused by a fungus known as blastomyces. This fungus is commonly found in moist soil and decomposing organic matter, such as rotting wood and leaves. When the soil or organic matter is disturbed, tiny spores are released. If these spores are inhaled, they can enter the lungs and develop into yeast. This yeast can remain in the lungs or spread through the blood to areas like the skin, bones, joints, organs, and the central nervous system.In terms of grim outcomes, two studies examining blastomycosis cases have shown that approximately 8–9% of individuals with the infection have died. However, it’s worth noting that the overall mortality rate is likely lower as the studies did not include patients with less severe infections.The fungus is primarily found in the Midwestern, south-central, and southeastern states, with a heavy presence in regions around the Great Lakes. Generally, blastomycosis is not very common. In areas where blastomycosis is reported, there are typically only 1 or 2 cases per 100,000 people each year. However, there was an outbreak last year at the Billerud Paper Mill in Escanaba, Michigan, with over 100 cases reported and one death.On a positive note, most people who inhale the spores do not become ill. Furthermore, only about half of those infected develop symptoms such as:
FeverCoughShortness of breathNight sweatsFatigueMuscle aches or joint painChest, rib, or back painUnfortunately, for some individuals, especially those with weakened immune systems, the infection can become severe. Treatment is available, and most people affected will require antifungal medication. The length of treatment can range from six months to a year, depending on the severity of the infection and the person’s immune system strength.
When it comes to prevention, there is no vaccine. People at risk of a severe infection should consider avoiding activities that disturb soil in areas where Blastomyces is commonly found.This Week on the Dr. Nandi Show
The health of your teeth is connected to your overall body health. However, dental care is often neglected. By the time you realize it, you might find yourself in pain at the dentist’s office. At that point, it could be too late to save your tooth, or the treatment could be much more expensive. That’s why Dr. Partha Nandi, MD, talks to a woman who suffered from periodontal disease and lost many of her teeth to the point of feeling embarrassed to smile. Ultimately, she had all her teeth replaced. Additionally, two dentists join Dr. Nandi to discuss implants and the process, and they emphasize the importance of diet in preventing cavities. Furthermore, Dr. Nandi’s hygienist demonstrates how to properly brush and floss teeth. Watch the show this Sunday, February 11th, at 2:30 AM**please note this is technically early Monday, so be sure to set your DVR if you’re not up that late.
