Historically Valley Fever was a desert problem, but that’s no longer the case. In 2025, California reported over 3,100 cases in Monterey, Merced, and Contra Costa counties. For context case that is more than triple last year’s numbers. Experts say climate change, wildfires, and digging up soil are fueling the reach and spread of valley fever.
What Is Valley Fever?
Valley Fever, also known as coccidioidomycosis, is caused by breathing in fungal spores that live in dry, dusty soil. Activities like construction, farming, or even a strong wind can stir them up into the air. Once inhaled, they can get into your lungs and cause symptoms.
Why Care?
Symptoms for Valley Fever often mimic the flu or COVID and include fever, cough, fatigue, and headaches. For most, the illness is mild and clears up on its own. However, in about 1% of cases, it can become serious, spreading to other parts of the body like the skin, bones, or brain. In addition, the fungus can stay dormant and come back if your immune system weakens.
Here are some early signs to look for:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Night sweats
- Muscle or joint pain
- A red, blotchy rash (often on the lower legs)
In severe cases, people may experience chest pain, weight loss, painful skin sores, or meningitis. People over 60, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of complications. If you’ve visited an area where Valley Fever is active and your symptoms aren’t improving, see your doctor.
What You Can Do About It
Most mild cases don’t require treatment, but serious ones require antifungal medication. Getting care early really helps especially if you’re in a higher-risk group or area.
To protect yourself if you work outside or are around dust, wear a mask or wet the ground before digging. Fever is often one of the first signs, so keeping an eye on your body temperature is important. An accurate thermometer like Exergen’s Temporal Artery Thermometer makes it easy. Their TAT-2000C model is even available at Walmart.
As dry weather becomes more common, Valley Fever will continue to spread. Staying informed and paying attention to symptoms can go a long way to keeping you healthy.
Sources,
- Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/valley-fever/symptoms-causes/syc-20378761
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