Public health officials in California are warning the public about an increased risk of Valley fever spreading throughout the state this summer and fall. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has stated that the wet winter experienced in the past has led to a higher risk of Valley fever infections.
Valley fever, also known as coccidioidomycosis or “cocci,” is caused by breathing in fungus spores found in dust and dirt. Symptoms of the infection include cough, fever, chest pain, body aches, and fatigue. In severe cases, individuals may need to miss work, school, or other daily activities.
Research conducted by the University of California, Berkley and the CDPH has shown that periods of drought followed by a heavy rain season increase the transmission of the fungus that causes Valley fever. Due to the historic wet winter in Southern California, experts and CDPH officials are urging the public to be cautious and learn how to distinguish the illness from other respiratory diseases, such as COVID-19.
Symptoms of Valley fever can last for a month or more, and laboratory tests are required to determine whether an individual has Valley fever or another illness. If a COVID-19 test comes back negative but respiratory symptoms persist for more than a week, officials recommend consulting a doctor to determine if Valley fever could be the cause.
CDPH Director and State Public Health Officer Dr. Tomás Aragón emphasized the importance of early detection, stating, “To protect yourself and your family, know the symptoms of Valley fever, which will help ensure early detection. Individuals with lingering cough and fatigue should talk to a health care provider about Valley fever, especially if they have been outdoors in dusty air.”
Valley fever rates are highest in areas such as Kern, Kings, San Luis Obispo, Fresno, Tulare, Madera, and Monterey counties in the Central Valley and Central Coast regions. However, there has been an increase in Valley fever cases in other areas of the state, including the Northern San Joaquin Valley and Southern California.
To mitigate exposure to Valley fever, officials recommend avoiding dust outdoors in areas where Valley fever is common, staying indoors with closed windows and doors during windy and dusty conditions, wetting down soil and dirt before digging to prevent stirring up dust, and considering wearing a properly fitted N95 mask when in dusty air outdoors in these areas.
With the increased risk of Valley fever infections this summer and fall, it is crucial for the public to be aware of the symptoms and take necessary precautions to avoid exposure to dusty air.