As climate patterns change and environmental conditions change, certain diseases are becoming more prevalent in regions where they were once rare. One such disease is Valley Fever in California, a fungal infection that is spreading rapidly throughout the country. With increasing cases being reported, it is important to understand what valley fever is, the symptoms associated with it, and how it can be prevented.
What is valley fever?
Valley fever, scientifically known as coccidioidomycosis, is an infection caused by the fungus Coccidioides. This fungus lives in soil, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. In the United States, it is most commonly found in southwestern states, including Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and California. The disease got its name from California’s San Joaquin Valley, where it was first identified.
The Coccidioides fungus thrives in hot, dry climates, and spores can become airborne when the soil is disturbed by construction, farming, or even strong winds. People can become infected by inhaling these spores, which then enter the lungs and cause disease. Although valley fever is not contagious and cannot spread from person to person, it can be severe, especially for certain groups of people.
Valley fever symptoms
Valley fever can present with a wide range of symptoms, which can vary in severity from mild to life-threatening. Symptoms usually appear one to three weeks after exposure to fungal spores. The early symptoms of valley fever are often similar to those of the flu, which can make it difficult to diagnose early. Common symptoms include:
Fever: Persistent fever is one of the most common symptoms of valley fever.
Cough: A dry cough that may last for weeks or months.
Fatigue: Profound fatigue and weakness that does not improve with rest.
Shortness of breath: Shortness of breath and feeling of shortness of breath.
Chest pain: Chest pain, which can range from mild to severe.
Night sweats: profuse sweating at night.
Joint and muscle pain: Joint and muscle pain and stiffness, sometimes called “desert arthritis.”
Skin rash: In some cases, red, scaly patches may appear on the legs or upper body.
For many people, these symptoms may resolve on their own over time, especially in healthy individuals with strong immune systems. However, in some cases, valley fever can cause more serious complications, especially if the infection spreads from the lungs to other parts of the body, such as the skin, bones, joints, or brain. This condition is called disseminated coccidioidomycosis and it can be fatal.
Who is at risk?
Although anyone who lives in or travels to areas where Coccidioides is present can get valley fever, certain groups are at higher risk for severe forms of the disease. These include:
People with weakened immune systems: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, or those taking immunosuppressants, are more susceptible to severe valley fever. .
Pregnant women: Pregnancy, especially in the later stages, can increase the risk of severe valley fever.
Older adults: Older adults are more likely to develop serious complications from valley fever.
People with diabetes: People with diabetes may be more prone to severe forms of the disease.
Certain ethnic groups: Studies show that people of African, Filipino, or Hispanic descent are more likely to develop disseminated coccidioidomycosis.
Cases on the rise in California
In recent years, California has seen a significant increase in reported cases of valley fever. This increase is believed to be linked to several factors, including climate change, population growth in arid areas, and increased construction and agricultural activities that disturb the soil. Hot, dry conditions in many parts of the state create an ideal environment for the Coccidioides fungus to thrive and spread.
According to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), the number of reported cases of valley fever has more than doubled in the past decade, with thousands of new cases being reported each year. This trend is concerning, as it indicates that more people are at risk of contracting the disease, especially in areas where the fungus is present.
Prevention and protection
Preventing valley fever can be difficult, especially for people who live in or travel to areas where the fungus is endemic. However, several steps can be taken to reduce the risk of exposure to Coccidioides spores:
Avoid dusty areas: Try to avoid activities that disturb the soil, such as digging, farming, or construction, especially in dry, windy conditions. If you must be in a dusty area, consider wearing a mask to reduce dust inhalation.
Stay indoors during dust storms: During dust storms or windy conditions, stay indoors as much as possible to reduce exposure to airborne spores.
Keep windows and doors closed: When indoors, keep windows and doors closed to prevent dust from entering your home or vehicle.
Use air filtration: Consider using an air filtration system in your home to reduce the amount of dust and spores in the air.
Protect the vulnerable: If you are in a high-risk group, take extra precautions to avoid dust and dirt in local areas.
Educate yourself: Know the areas where valley fever is most common and take appropriate precautions if you plan to travel or work in these areas.
Treatment options
If you suspect you have valley fever, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the disease from progressing to more serious forms. Treatment usually includes antifungal medications, which are used to kill the Coccidioides fungus and prevent it from spreading.
In mild cases, treatment may not be needed, as the body’s immune system can often clear the infection on its own. However, in more severe cases, long-term antifungal therapy may be needed, sometimes lasting months or years.
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