Archive · 21 Aug 2025
California Facing Spike in Valley Fever Cases in 2025
Valley Fever is a sickness caused by a fungus found in dusty soil.
You can get it by breathing in the dust.
Symptoms feel like the flu, with fever and coughs.
Some people get very sick, and it can affect their lungs or other body parts.
The number of cases is going up in California this year.
Experts think it's because of the weather, like dry and windy days.
To stay safe, avoid dusty places and wear a mask if you work where there's a lot of dust.
If you think you have it, see a doctor to feel better faster.
Valley Fever cases in California are on the rise, potentially breaking last year's record.
The fungal infection, caused by inhaling spores, thrives in dry, dusty soils.
Symptoms include fatigue, cough, fever, and can progress to serious complications.
Those over 60, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk.
Experts advise avoiding dusty areas, staying indoors during dust storms, and wearing masks.
- Who
- People in California, especially those over 60, pregnant, or with weak immune systems.
- What
- Increase in Valley Fever cases.
- When
- Cases are rising in 2025, potentially breaking last year's record.
- Where
- California, particularly in coastal and Central Valley areas.
- Why
- Climate change and environmental factors are contributing to the spread.
Environmental Factors
Public Health
Main Causes of the Rise
Environmental Factors
Climate change and environmental factors create conditions that allow the fungus to grow.
Public Health
N/A
- Disease Name
- Valley Fever (Coccidioidomycosis)
- Cause
- Fungus in soil
- Transmission
- Inhaling airborne spores
- Symptoms
- Fatigue, cough, fever, body aches
- At-Risk Groups
- Over 60, pregnant, weakened immune systems
- Prevention
- Avoid dusty areas, wear masks, stay indoors on windy days
- 2024 Cases (reported)
- 12,595
- 2025 Cases (reported by end of July)
- 6,761