Cryptostroma corticale is a fungus associated with some broadleaf trees, especially maple trees. When trees are infected by this fungus, it is termed Sooty Bark Disease (SBD). SBD has been identified on Big Leaf Maples (Acer macrophyllum) within the District of Saanich.
Symptoms of infected trees include leaf wilting and branch dieback. Infected trees can give off large amounts of airborne spores. Breathing in the fungus spores for an extended period may result in Maple Bark Disease (hypersensitivity pneumonitis in humans). Hypersensitivity pneumonitis does not spread from person to person or from animals to people.
There is a low risk to the public of breathing in wind-blown spores. Exposure risk increases when handling or working with infected trees, for example, those most at risk for Maple Bark Disease are people whose work brings them into regular and close contact with infected trees, such as loggers, arborists, foresters, and paper mill workers. People with compromised immune systems, respiratory disease such as asthma, or underlying allergies may also be at higher risk.
The District of Saanich is deeply committed to worker safety. All persons working on infected trees must be familiar with and follow written safe work procedures, including reducing the likelihood of exposure using various methods. Saanich will continue to work with relevant government agencies to support worker and public safety across the region.
Additional information can be found on the following government websites:
- Mystery in the Maples: Uncovering the spread of sooty bark disease in British Columbia - Natural Resources Canada
- Maple bark disease | HealthLink BC