I was diagnosed with MAC and bronchiectasis this past June. I basically have no symptoms except occasional shortness of breath and a bit of a dry cough at times. I don't feel sick at all. I had to have a CT scan of my right shoulder due to needing shoulder surgery. The radiologist reported seeing some suspicious things in my right lung. The orthopedic Dr sent me to see a pulmonologist. The pulmonologist ordered his own CT scan of both lungs. This led to a bronchoscopy...which led to finding out Ihad MAC and bronchiectasis. I was shocked! I had no idea I had something damaging my lungs. While no one can definitively say how I got MAC...it's most likely from gardening - soil, mulch, and possibly all the contact and caring for the chickens. I understand your concerns!!!! It can feel quite overwhelming! I am a retired teacher and was also subbing. I've decided not to sub any longer due to all the upper respiratory germs I was getting exposed to constantly. This forum has really helped me. I also have a good pulmonologist and infectious disease doctor. They have agreed (somewhat reluctantly) to let me take a watch and wait stance for now. But, I'm being careful and paying attention to not purposely expose myself to things which might exacerbate the MAC/BE. I wish you all the best and hope your doctors can help you feel confident about the treatments best for your situation.