Histoplasmosis & Bat or Bird Droppings
A fungus called Histoplasma grows in soil enriched with bird or bat droppings. When the dirt is disturbed, spores float in the air. Breathing them can cause histoplasmosis, a lung infection that can be serious for some people.
- Demolition & Renovation
- Bridge & Attic Work
- Farm & Maintenance
Where it is found
- Soil under bird roosts, chicken coops, starling and pigeon roosts, bat caves and attics.
- Old buildings, silos, barns, bridges, towers and chimneys with heavy droppings.
- It is more common in some regions, particularly river valleys, but can occur elsewhere.
Work that raises risk
- Demolishing or cleaning old buildings and attics
- Cleaning bridges, towers and steel structures
- Digging, excavating or clearing brush where birds roost
- Removing droppings, cleaning chimneys and ducts
- Tree removal and caving
Symptoms
- Most people have no symptoms or mild flu-like illness.
- In heavy exposure, symptoms may appear in 3 to 17 days: fever, chills, cough, chest pain, headache and fatigue.
- It can become severe, especially for people with weak immune systems. A doctor can test for it. Tell them about your work.
Protect yourself
- Before work, look for droppings, nests and signs of birds or bats. Plan to avoid raising dust.
- Wet the area lightly with water (or a recommended disinfectant) before cleaning so spores do not become airborne. Do not dry sweep or use compressed air.
- Wear a respirator suited to the exposure, such as a half-face with P100 filters or higher, fit tested, with disposable coveralls, gloves and eye protection. See Respiratory Protection.
- Use HEPA vacuums for dry material and double-bag waste.
- Remove protective gear carefully and wash up before eating or leaving. Do not carry contaminated clothing home.
- Heavy contamination may need professional remediation. Bats are protected in many places; ask wildlife authorities before removal.
- Ventilate the area where possible.
Checklist
- Hazard assessment completed for droppings or nests
- Respirator fit tested and training given
- Wet methods and HEPA vacuums available
- Waste bagged and disposed of as the plan says
- Workers know symptoms to report
Standards & references
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