Arizona has reported over 14,000 cases of Valley fever this year, the highest caseload in more than a decade. The disease, caused by fungal spores, typically causes flu-like symptoms but can lead to severe complications. Dr. John Galgiani, director of the Valley Fever Center for Excellence at the University of Arizona, attributes the surge to drier weather.
Valley fever is not contagious, spreading through airborne fungal spores found in desert soil. The disease affects humans and animals, with two-thirds of US cases contracted in Arizona. Better testing and diagnosis may contribute to the increase, but Galgiani suggests dry weather as the primary cause.
Galgiani notes that dry conditions allow spores to become airborne more easily, leading to higher transmission rates. Researchers are working on a vaccine for dogs, which they hope will gain USDA approval by 2025. A human vaccine is also in development, with no current availability.
Source: https://www.kjzz.org/kjzz-news/2024-12-19/arizona-valley-fever-cases-are-at-the-highest-level-in-13-years-drier-weather-could-be-to-blame