In partnership with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) recognizes the 10th annual Fungal Disease Awareness Week (September 14 – 18, 2026). Because fungal infections can be easily missed or mistaken for other common illnesses, our goal is to share clear, supportive guidance to help keep you, your family, and our communities safe. 

Living in the beautiful American Southwest comes with unique surroundings, including the dry desert dust that can carry Coccidioides, the fungus responsible for Valley fever. It’s a very real concern for many of us, infecting thousands of Arizonans each year. 

To understand its impact, consider Valley fever’s staggering toll on our state in 2024:

  • 14,763 reported cases
  • 986 hospitalizations (inpatient) 
  • 86 deaths
  • $95.5 million in total hospitalization (inpatient) charges

While anyone living in or traveling through Arizona can catch Valley fever, please remember that simple, proactive steps can go a long way in protecting your health:

  • Listen to your body: Learn the common signs and symptoms of Valley fever (like lingering fatigue, cough, fever, or chest pain).
  • Advocate for yourself: Ask your healthcare provider for a Valley fever test if you feel something isn’t right.
  • Protect your lungs: Try to minimize inhaling dust during windy days or heavy outdoor activity.

If you’d like to learn more about who is most at risk and how to better protect yourself and those you care about, please visit our Valley Fever Information and Risk Guide.