Valley Fever Awareness Week: Key facts & prevention tips

As Arizona marks its 22nd annual Valley Fever Awareness Week from Nov. 16-24, health officials are emphasizing the importance of understanding this potentially serious fungal infection that affected nearly 11,000 Arizonans in 2023 alone.

What is valley fever?

Valley fever, medically known as coccidioidomycosis, is a fungal infection caused by breathing in microscopic spores of the Coccidioides fungus commonly found in desert soil. When soil is disturbed by activities like construction, farming, or wind, these spores can become airborne and be inhaled, leading to infection.

Understanding the symptoms

The disease typically manifests one to three weeks after exposure, with symptoms that can include:

• Fever
• Persistent cough
• Extreme fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Headache
• Night sweats
• Joint and muscle pain
• Rash on legs, chest, arms, or back

While approximately 40% of infected individuals develop symptoms similar to flu or pneumonia, most cases resolve on their own. However, some people may develop more severe forms of the disease.

High-risk groups

Certain individuals are at higher risk for developing serious complications:

• Pregnant women, especially in their third trimester
• People with diabetes
• Those with weakened immune systems
• Individuals of Filipino or African heritage
• Adults over 60
• People with HIV/AIDS or those on immunosuppressive medications

Prevention strategies

While there’s no vaccine for valley fever, you can reduce your risk by:

• Wearing a protective mask in dusty conditions
• Avoiding outdoor activities during dust storms
• Staying indoors during windy conditions
• Wetting soil before gardening or landscaping
• Keeping doors and windows tightly sealed
• Cleaning any skin injuries thoroughly with soap and water

When to seek medical care

Contact your healthcare provider if you:

• Live in or have recently visited areas where valley fever is common
• Develop symptoms that persist or worsen
• Fall into any high-risk category and experience symptoms

Public health impact

In 2023, Arizona reported 10,990 positive cases and 74 deaths from valley fever, highlighting the significant public health impact of this disease. Health officials encourage residents to learn about valley fever and seek testing if symptoms develop.

For more information about Valley Fever Awareness Week activities or to participate in the ADHS art contest, visit www.valleyfeverarizona.org. Remember: awareness and early detection are key to managing this desert-endemic disease.