Archive · 21 May 2025
Valley Fever Cases Rising in US, California Faces Surge
Valley Fever is a lung infection caused by a fungus in the soil, especially in the Southwest.
You get it by breathing in tiny fungus bits.
Most people feel like they have the flu.
However, it can cause more serious lung problems for some.
Cases are going up, especially in California, which has had wet winters and dry summers.
People who work outside, the elderly, and those with weak immune systems are more likely to get sick.
If you have symptoms like a cough and fever, it's essential to see a doctor.
Valley Fever cases are on the rise in the U.S., with California potentially facing another surge.
The fungal infection, also known as coccidioidomycosis, affects the lungs.
Early 2025 data shows over 3,100 confirmed cases in California, exceeding last year's figures.
The disease is caused by the Coccidioides fungus, commonly found in the Southwest U.S.
Wet winters and dry summers create ideal conditions for the fungus's growth and spread.
- Who
- People who work outdoors, elderly, immunocompromised, and pregnant women are at increased risk.
- What
- Valley Fever is a fungal infection affecting the lungs caused by inhaling the Coccidioides fungus.
- When
- The infection is most common in late summer and fall.
- Where
- The fungus is most common in the Southwest U.S., particularly in California and Arizona, with outbreaks in areas like Kern and Contra Costa counties.
- Why
- California's weather patterns, from extreme drought to heavy rains, have created ideal conditions for the fungus, with wet winters helping it grow and dry summers breaking it into infectious spores.
- What is Valley Fever?
- Fungal infection affecting the lungs
- Early 2025 Cases
- Over 3,100 cases reported statewide
- Most Common Locations
- California and Arizona
- Symptoms
- Fatigue, cough, fever, headache, shortness of breath
- At Risk Groups
- Elderly, immunocompromised, pregnant women, outdoor workers