Caused by a fungus called Sporothrix, sporotrichosis lives in soil and on plant matter such as sphagnum moss, rose bushes, and hay, as per the CDC. There are three types of sporotrichosis – cutaneous (skin) sporotrichosis, Pulmonary (lung) sporotrichosis, which is rare and disseminated sporotrichosis.

Cutaneous (skin) sporotrichosis occurs when the fungus enters the skin through small cuts and cracks, an infection forms, leading to a “small, painless bump that can develop any time from 1 to 12 weeks after exposure to the fungus”, says CDC.

Pulmonary (lung) sporotrichosis occurs when one breathes in the fungal spores. Cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, and fever are some of the associated symptoms.

Disseminated sporotrichosis can occur in different parts of the body. Symptoms depend accordingly.

Sporotrichosis infections are not life-threatening. It can be treated with prescription antifungal medicine for several months. Depending on which type of sporotrichosis you’re suffering from, you can consult your doctor and act accordingly.