Cavern Cough

There are two strains of Cavern Cough: bacterial and magical. Until recently, neither had a magicless cure. Now, thanks to Tubri Holasys, the bacterial version has been cured. Unfortunately, the magical version is still rampant although remains less deadly.
The damp environment in the mines is known to be the perfect breeding ground.

Transmission & Vectors

Airborne transmission is the most common form of spreading Cavern Cough, although many believe that touching a person with Cavern Cough is enough to transmit the bacteria.

Treatment

Before a cure was found, the typical treatments were stone broth, lots of water (when excess was available), and rest. Before the War on Magic, a mage, alchemist, healer, or religious head may enter a house with a mask and perform a healing. Typical healings would include burning plants, light chanting, and an occasional healing spell or prayer of healing. Since the 100-year war began, all healings of this nature have ceased. Unfortunately, this increased the death rate.
It wasn't until recently Tubri Holasys recently found a scientific cure for Cavern Cough. With all the formal documents in place proving it wasn't magic in triplicate, a cure was finally able to be passed around. Holasys claims that using the plants burned in "old healings" was simply misdirection and the true answer lied in the fungi growing in those damp environments.
"The tricky part has always been bringing the fungi to the lab without drying it out. To that end, I request a temporary lab be set up in the Mountain Range." -Tubri Holasys

Affected Groups

Most cases have been found in the Mountain Range. Recently, Cavern Cough was brought to Asmain and the mortality rate in this region was higher. Tubri Holasys speculates that those living in the Mountain Range have built up immunity but further studies need to be completed, of course.

Prevention

Before a cure was discovered, every person working in the mines would be strongly advised to wear a mask while working in specific environments.  When a person is believed to have contracted Cavern Cough, they are required to stay home.  Unfortunately, sending another family member to work in their stead didn't always stop the spread as that person may have been a carrier or contracted Cavern Cough but remained in the incubation period.

Origin

Natural

Rarity

Common

Bacterial Symptoms:

Minor:

• Echoing Cough
• Sore Throat
• Sore Chest
• Clammy

Major:

• Broken Ribs
• Cavern Skin
• Death

Magical Symptoms:

Minor:

• Truly Echoing Cough
• Tickled Throat
• Warm Chest
• Clammy

Major:

• Coughs causing Random Spells
• Skin that changes Color and Pattern