A family of 12 in Costa Rica contracted histoplasmosis, a potentially deadly lung infection, after a caving expedition in December 2024. The group took part in a tour at Venado Cavesc, which had been linked to an earlier outbreak of the disease.
During their trip, all family members reported seeing bats and having direct contact with bat droppings while crawling through tight spaces in the caves. Upon returning to the US, they developed mild to moderate symptoms, including headache, fever, and respiratory issues.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) linked the illness to the caving excursion and notified them on January 17. Fortunately, all affected family members recovered by late February or were close to recovery after just one month.
The CDC warns that histoplasmosis can trigger pneumonia and lead to long-term lung infections in severe cases. Rarely, it can spread to other parts of the body, including the brain and spinal cord. Those with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to complications.
This incident serves as a reminder to take precautions when caving or engaging in similar activities that involve direct contact with bat droppings or fungal spores.
Source: https://www.dailystar.co.uk/news/family-infected-deadly-disease-after-35244189