Valley fever cases are skyrocketing in California, with over 6,700 confirmed cases as of July’s end. The numbers are expected to far exceed last year’s record-breaking 12,595 cases. Health officials attribute the surge to delays in reporting, rather than any significant change in the state’s climate.
Named after the San Joaquin Valley, Valley fever is a fungal infection caused by breathing in spores of Coccidioides fungus found in soil. Southern Arizona and California are hotspots for cases, but the disease also affects New Mexico, Nevada, Utah, Texas, and parts of Washington state.
Research indicates that periods of drought followed by precipitation can promote growth of the fungus, sending spores into the air people breathe in. Dr. George Thompson, a professor at UC Davis Health, notes that cases have increased over the past five years, with more patients seeking diagnosis and treatment.
Certain groups are more vulnerable to Valley fever, including those 60 or older, pregnant women, people with diabetes, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can range from mild (fever, chills, fatigue) to severe (respiratory illness, difficulty breathing), and may include bone or joint pain, night sweats, and skin rashes.
While rare, Valley fever can cause meningitis in some cases. Treatment is crucial for those with severe symptoms, and prevention strategies involve avoiding construction sites, wearing N95 respirators, and minimizing exposure to dusty areas.
A blood test can confirm an infection, while a chest X-ray or CT scan can detect pneumonia. Anyone experiencing prolonged symptoms should see a doctor, especially if they’ve been in areas where the fungus is prevalent.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/health/valley-fever-cases-spike-record-levels-west-coast-state-health-officials-warn