Histoplasmosis (Histoplasma capsulatum)

Histoplasmosis in Minnesota: Cheryl's Story (YouTube)

Histoplasmosis is a rare fungal infection caused by Histoplasma capsulatum. Infection occurs by inhaling spores of the fungus, which is found in soil. Many people who inhale the spores do not get sick. If people develop illness, symptoms often include a cough, fever, shortness of breath, and chest pain. People can be exposed to Histoplasma through common activities including farming, working with soil enriched with bird or bat guano, remodeling or demolishing old buildings, and clearing trees or brush in which birds have roosted. 

In North America, histoplasmosis occurs primarily in the Mississippi and Ohio River valleys. In Minnesota, the incidence appears higher in southern and western Minnesota, but cases have been reported from across the state. 

From 2017-2025, there are an average of 192 cases of histoplasmosis each year in Minnesota. Find more Histoplasmosis Statistics and Maps.

About Histoplasmosis

• CDC: Histoplasmosis – CDC webpage with information on symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment.
• CDC: Clinical Overview of Histoplasmosis
• CDC: Histoplasmosis - Protecting Workers at Risk – This booklet is the most recent edition of the NIOSH document Histoplasmosis: Protecting Workers at Risk.

Reporting

Reporting Histoplasmosis (Histoplasma capsulatum)
Healthcare providers and clinical laboratories are required to report cases to the Minnesota Department of Health.