Valley fever (also called coccidioidomycosis or “cocci”) is a disease caused by a fungus that grows in the soil and dirt in some areas of California and the southwestern United States. People and animals can get sick when they breathe in dust that contains the Valley fever fungus. This fungus usually infects the lungs and can cause respiratory symptoms including cough, fever, chest pain, and tiredness.

Valley Fever infection can occur year-round. In California, it has been reported from most counties, but especially from the San Joaquin (Central) Valley. 

People can get sick by breathing in a form of the Valley Fever fungus called spores. Spores are too small to be seen. They can get into the air with dust when it is windy or when dirt is disturbed. Valley Fever cannot be spread from one person to another.

What are the symptoms of Valley Fever?

About 60% of infected people will not get sick. People who do get sick can have symptoms that last a month or more:

• Fever
• Tiredness
• Cough
• Chest pain
• Muscle or joint aches
• Headaches
• Weight loss
• Rash

Most people who get Valley Fever fully recover and are usually protected from getting Valley Fever again.

Who is most at risk?

Some people have more risk of getting very sick if infected and they may need to be hospitalized, such as: Adults 60 years and up, pregnant women, people with weak immune systems, diabetics, African Americans, Filipinos and Latinos.  Most people who get Valley Fever fully recover and are usually protected from getting Valley Fever again.

The best way to reduce the risk is to avoid breathing in dirt or dust in places where Valley Fever is common. When it is windy and the air is dusty, especially during dust storms:

• Stay inside and keep windows and doors closed.
• While driving, keep car windows shut and use “recirculating” air conditioning if available.
• If you must be outdoors, consider wearing an N95 mask or respirator (available at drug and hardware stores).
• When working or playing in areas with open dirt:
• Wet down soil before disturbing it to reduce dust.
• Consider wearing an N95 mask.

• California Department of Public Health (Valley Fever)
• Valley Fever Symptoms
• How to protect your pets from Valley Fever
• How to prevent Valley Fever
• Valley Fever (CDC)