Valley Fever (Coccidioidomycosis)
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It’s important to consider fungal diseases in the context of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic because the symptoms of some fungal diseases can be like those of COVID-19, including fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
Overview
Coccidioidomycosis or Valley Fever is an infectious disease in parts of the United States. It is caused by inhaling microscopic arthroconidia (also known as arthrospores or spores) of the closely related fungal species Coccidioides immitis and C. posadasii. Areas where Coccidioides is endemic (native and common) include states in the southwestern U.S. such as:
- Arizona
- California
- New Mexico
- Nevada
- Texas
- Parts of Mexico, Central America, and South America
The CDC Valley Fever: General information about symptoms, diagnosis, & treatment web page provides further general information about Valley Fever.
The disease also has important work-related aspects. Certain jobs and work activities are associated with an increased risk of infection to workers. These include jobs that involve digging in or disturbing soil in endemic areas. It is important to know there are prevention measures that can be protect workers at risk.
Resources
CDC – Coccidioidomycosis website
CDC – Ten Things to Know about Valley Fever
NIOSH Science Blog – Coccidioidomycosis: An Enduring Work-Related Disease
California Department of Public Health – Preventing Work-Related Valley Fever (Coccidioidomycosis)
California Department of Public Health – Preventing Work-Related Coccidioidomycosis (Valley Fever) fact sheet
Arizona Department of Health Services – Coccidioidomycosis (Valley Fever)
Valley Fever Center for Excellence – Coccidioidomycosis (University of Arizona)