California Faces Record Surge in Valley Fever Cases
Cases of Valley fever in California have reached alarming levels, with health officials confirming a total of 6,761 cases by the end of July 2025. This number suggests that the state may surpass the previous record of 12,595 cases reported in 2024 if the current trend continues. The average annual cases between 2016 and 2024 ranged from 7,000 to 9,000, as noted by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).
The rise in cases is attributed to several factors, including delays in reporting and environmental conditions. “Valley fever is a serious illness that’s here to stay in California,” stated Erica Pan, director of the California public health department. This fungal infection, caused by inhaling spores from the soil-dwelling fungus Coccidioides, is endemic to California and other southwestern states.
Geographic and Environmental Influences
Valley fever is most prevalent in Southern California and Southern Arizona, but it also affects regions in New Mexico, Nevada, Utah, Texas, and parts of Washington State. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), environmental factors, particularly cycles of drought followed by rainfall, contribute to the proliferation of the fungus. The spores can become airborne, increasing exposure risk for residents.
The rise in cases has been observed over the past several years. Dr. George Thompson, a professor at UC Davis Health and co-director of the Center for Valley Fever, noted, “We have seen a gradual increase in cases over the last five years, and a greater number of patients are coming into our clinic for diagnosis and treatment.”
Understanding Risks and Symptoms
While anyone can contract Valley fever, certain populations face higher risks. The CDC identifies individuals aged 60 and older, those with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, people with diabetes, and individuals of Black or Filipino descent as particularly vulnerable. The symptoms of Valley fever can resemble those of other respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19.
Dr. Thompson highlighted that symptoms may include fever, chills, fatigue, and a general feeling of malaise. In severe cases, patients might experience significant respiratory issues, chest pain, and other complications. The CDPH lists additional symptoms such as joint pain, night sweats, severe headaches, and skin rashes.
For approximately 1% to 3% of those infected, the disease can progress beyond the lungs and lead to meningitis. Severe cases may require hospitalization, with ongoing medical care potentially needed for months or even years.
One patient, Rob Purdie, contracted Valley fever in 2012 and experienced serious complications, including meningitis that affected his vision. “The spores had spread from my lungs to my brain and nervous system,” he recounted. More than a decade later, Purdie continues to deal with the lasting effects of his illness.
Prevention and Treatment
Given that the fungus resides in soil, infections often occur during activities that disturb the earth. Individuals engaged in outdoor hobbies, such as archaeology or gardening, should take precautions. Dr. Thompson advises those in high-risk groups to avoid construction sites and areas where dust is prevalent. Wearing an N95 respirator can also help reduce exposure in these environments.
Diagnosis of Valley fever typically involves a blood test to confirm current or past infections, along with chest X-rays or CT scans to identify pneumonia. While not everyone requires treatment, those with severe symptoms or underlying health conditions may benefit from antifungal medications.
Anyone experiencing symptoms like cough, fever, or fatigue lasting longer than seven to ten days, especially after exposure to dust or soil in known regions, should seek medical attention.
As California grapples with this surge in Valley fever cases, public health officials emphasize the importance of awareness and preventive measures to mitigate the impact of this persistent health threat.
