Coccidioides - The Fungal Parasite Explained
What is Coccidioides and where is it commonly found?
Coccidioides is a fungal parasite that is commonly found in various regions of the southwest United States, México, South America, and some parts of Washington. Which of the following states is not listed among those where Coccidioides is found?
- Arizona
- California
- Nevada
- Ohio
Answer:
The correct answer is Ohio. Coccidioides is found in Arizona, California, Nevada, Texas, and Utah among other regions.
Coccidioides is a fungal parasite commonly found in the soil and dust of regions like Arizona, California, Nevada, Texas, and Utah, as well as parts of México, South America, and Washington. It can cause coccidioidomycosis, a respiratory infection, when airborne spores are inhaled.
The exclusion of Ohio from the list of states with Coccidioides shows that not all areas with similar climates and conditions necessarily host the same fungal parasites. So, if you're in Ohio, you can breathe a sigh of relief knowing you're not at risk of encountering Coccidioides!