Fungus not widespread on island: MD

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Fungus not widespread on island: MD

Cathedral Grove test a false positive

Thursday, August 08, 2002

NANAIMO -- A rare and potentially deadly tropical fungus may not be as

widespread as first feared on Central Vancouver Island.

Rathtrevor Provincial park at Parksville is the only location where sampling

has determined the presence of the fungus, which can cause cryptococcal

disease.

Medical health officer Dr. Fred Rockwell says numerous other sites have

tested negative, including Cathedral Grove on the road to Port Alberni.

He says a test in June produced a false positive.

A public advisory was issued after the fungus was found on some trees native

to Vancouver Island.

The fungus is believed responsible for one death and 52 illnesses on the

island since 1999.

Rockwell says there have been one or two new cases reported this year.

© Copyright 2002 CP Broadcast News