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Updated: Jun 19, 2026
12:02
Collection and Extraction of Occupational Air Samples for Analysis of Fungal DNA
Published on: May 2, 2018
Point-source outbreak of coccidioidomycosis in construction workers
K C Cummings1, A McDowell, C Wheeler
1Infectious Diseases Branch, Division of Communicable Disease Control, Center for Infectious Diseases, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, CA, USA. kate.cummings@cdph.ca.gov
Epidemiology and Infection
|October 23, 2009
Summary
Construction workers excavating soil in endemic areas are at high risk for coccidioidomycosis. Implementing protective measures is crucial to prevent inhalation of Coccidioides spp. spores.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Coccidioidomycosis is caused by inhaling Coccidioides spp. spores.
- Endemic areas include specific soil and dust environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate a coccidioidomycosis outbreak in construction workers.
- Assess disease incidence and risk factors.
Main Methods:
- Case investigation of a 12-person construction crew.
- Serological testing and chest radiography.
- Review of exposure history and environmental factors.
Main Results:
- Ten of 12 workers developed coccidioidomycosis symptoms.
- Eight workers had confirmed disease; one had disseminated infection.
- No workers used respiratory protection during excavation.
Conclusions:
- Soil excavation in endemic areas poses a significant risk for coccidioidomycosis.
- Respiratory protection is essential during soil-disrupting activities.
- Preventive measures should be implemented even in areas with historic disease evidence.
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