Brynn Carrigan’s battle with Valley fever could have ended differently if she had sought medical attention sooner. The 35-year-old woman spent months on an intense regimen of anti-fungal treatments after being diagnosed with the rare disease, which is caused by a fungus that thrives in dry conditions.
California has seen a significant increase in Valley fever cases in recent years, and experts say climate change is to blame. Warmer winters and drier summers are expanding the disease’s range, making it more common in areas previously considered safe.
The fungus that causes Valley fever, Coccidioides, lives in the dirt and can be spread through disturbed soil or dust. Experts warn that people who work outdoors, camp, hike, or attend festivals in affected areas may be at risk of contracting the disease.
Symptoms of Valley fever typically take one to three weeks to appear after exposure, but it can take up to eight weeks for them to develop. Diagnosing the disease can be tricky because its symptoms overlap with other respiratory illnesses like flu, Covid, and pneumonia.
In Arizona, new hot spots are emerging in regions with a climate more similar to California’s than elsewhere in the state. The same climate patterns that drive Valley fever’s expansion also fuel increasingly intense wildfires, which may worsen the disease’s risk.
Scientists are still studying the link between wildfires and Valley fever, but some research suggests that smoke from fires can increase the spread of the fungus. Experts recommend closely tracking numbers in areas hit by recent fires to monitor for potential outbreaks.
Carrigan’s experience is a cautionary tale about the importance of seeking medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen after exposure to potentially infected soil or dust. By understanding the warning signs and taking action, people can get a faster diagnosis and reduce their risk of complications.
“We’re seeing wetter wets and drier dries across the Southwest,” said Jennifer Head, an assistant professor of epidemiology at the University of Michigan. “California is seeing that to a higher degree.” As climate change continues to shape the disease’s expansion, it’s essential for individuals, healthcare providers, and policymakers to be aware of the risks and take steps to mitigate them.
The number of people experiencing complications from Valley fever will rise as cases increase, making prompt diagnosis and treatment crucial. By spreading awareness about the disease and its symptoms, we can reduce the burden on healthcare systems and save lives.
Source: https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/valley-fever-california-climate-change-lead-fungal-infections-rcna206569