The 21st annual Valley Fever Awareness Week is from November 16th to the 24th. This event focuses on spreading public awareness of coccidioidomycosis, or Valley fever, across Arizona.
Valley fever is a lung infection caused by the fungus Coccidioides, which grows in the arid desert soil. When heated, the fungus may fragment and be picked up by the wind to be inhaled by an unsuspecting host. Whether you live in or travel through the state, you are at risk for contracting Valley fever. In 2023, 10,990 Arizonans tested positive and 74 died from this disease (see the 2023 Valley fever annual report on the Valley fever data, reports, and publications webpage).
Of those infected with Valley fever, an estimated 40% will develop symptoms similar to that of the flu or pneumonia – cough, fatigue, and fever. However, severe forms of this disease can lead to dissemination to other parts of the body outside of the lungs. Some individuals are considered high-risk for severe disease, including those with diabetes, pregnant women, or those with a weakened immune system.
Above all, we encourage you to:
- Know the signs and symptoms of Valley fever.
- Ask your provider to test if you think you have it.
- Avoid activities associated with dust and airborne dirt of native desert soil (this is recommended, but it is not guaranteed to prevent infection).
To learn more about Valley fever, visit the ADHS website at www.valleyfeverarizona.org. You can also help spread awareness of the disease by participating in our Valley fever art contest. Participants who submit a winning design will receive a prize and have their artwork featured on the ADHS website!
