Histoplasmosis(eye disease caused from bird droppings )

[sunbury chick]

I just found out about this disease from a friend that has it.He has only peripheral vision in his left eye caused when airbourne spores of the fungus,Histoplasma Capsulatum are inhaled into the lungs,the primary infection site.The microscopic fungus,which is found throughout the world in river valleys and soil where bird or bat droppings accumulate, is released into the air when soil is disturbed by plowing fields,SWEEPING CHICKEN COOPS,or digging holes.Just go on-line and look this disease up,there is alot of info that is very important to chicken owners.I have always cleaned out my coop with out wearing a dust mask.I won't be doing that anymore.Also, stupid woman that I am,cleaned my coop with bleach....Amonia (urine) and bleach is what" Agent Orange" is made from,amonia & bleach.It's a wonder I'm still alive.I hope this info doesn't make me sound like an alarmest,I just want you all to be careful cleaning your coops.
Sunbury Chick(or old hen) Sunbury, Ohio

 

[keeperofthehearth]

Thanks for posting. I had heard about this disease before fm a friend who's sister suffered fm it. I typically wear a dust mask when doing a major cleaning of of the coop but don't think to when I'm doing a 10min. quick freshening up. I will look this disease up and do some research. Also, amonia + bleach = mustard gas (WW1) not Agent Orange. Still, something you want to avoid.

 

[sunbury chick]

Thanks for the info about amonia & bleach being mustard gas,I was misinformed.Anyhow,it's dangerous,huh? I thank you ,Sunbury Chick(ohio)

 

[sammi]

histoplasmosis can also come from cat litter boxes.

 

[sunbury chick]

Thanks ,Sammi......Now I remember that. Pregnant women shouldn't clean cat litter boxes.I made my husband do it,he wasn't very happy to say the least.....