Bat Related Diseases

Histoplasmosis

Histoplasmosis is an infection caused by inhaling the spores of the Histoplasma Capsulatum fungus. This fungus is present in many places in the environment and people often come into contact with it because it is commonly present in bat guano. This interaction happens when people have a bat problem or infestation in their home, garage, or barn that puts them in close quarters with the guano or because they have to clean it up. This infection can result in lung problems and can even spread throughout the body and cause effects that last long after the infection has gone. Read More

White-Nose Syndrome

Just like in people, animals are able to experience epidemic problems, diseases, and illnesses. Certain bat species in North America are experiencing such a problem right now. They are being plagued by something known as white-nose syndrome. This is a fungal infection caused by a fungus called Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd), which presents itself as a white, furry substance on their faces. This is how it got its’ name. Read More

Rabies

Cases of rabies infection are rare in the United States, but it can only stay that way through education about the disease, its prevention, and wound treatment and care if a person is bitten. This disease is so dangerous that it does have a 99% mortality rate when it is not treated immediately and there is an estimated 70,000 death worldwide a year. In order to keep this number to a minimum, people need to know where it comes from and what to do if they feel they have been infected. Read More