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Nashville Investigates Death, 35 Illnesses Linked to Histoplasmosis

1/22/2026

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Summary

Story summary

In Nashville, health officials are investigating one death and at least 35 illnesses linked to histoplasmosis.
Histoplasmosis is caused by Histoplasma.
Histoplasma is prevalent in the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys, including Middle Tennessee, and up to 90% of people may be exposed.
The infection spreads through bird or bat droppings.
Alyssia Brown, 39, tested positive for histoplasmosis after her death.

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Story summary

In Nashville, health officials are investigating one death and at least 35 illnesses linked to histoplasmosis.
Histoplasmosis is caused by Histoplasma.
Histoplasma is prevalent in the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys, including Middle Tennessee, and up to 90% of people may be exposed.
The infection spreads through bird or bat droppings.
Alyssia Brown, 39, tested positive for histoplasmosis after her death.