Aspergillosis Blamed For Death Of Ducks

Experts with the U.S. Geological Survey's National are saying they are pretty sure that Aspergillosis is to blame for the sudden deaths of two thousand ducks. What is Aspergillosis?

(Mayo Clinic) Aspergillosis is an infection or allergic reaction caused by aspergillus — a mold (fungus) found in the environment, such as in decaying vegetation and household dust. In healthy individuals, it rarely causes problems. But aspergillus may affect people with asthma or weakened immune systems.

An aspergillus skin test can determine whether someone has been exposed to aspergillus. It's performed by injecting an aspergillus antigen under the skin. Inflammation at the injection site indicates past exposure to aspergillus.

Aspergillus can cause illness in several ways, including:

* An allergic reaction (allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, or ABPA) in people with asthma
* A serious infection (invasive pulmonary aspergillosis) in people with weakened immune systems, such as organ transplant recipients and those receiving chemotherapy

ABPA is an allergic lung reaction that often mimics pneumonia.

Thankfully it is not bird flu, but that doesn't mean we are ready. Preparation is the key in stopping the spread of bird flu.