Valley Fever is actually lung infection. A fungus becomes airborne when dust around the lower desert areas of the Southwest is transported by the wind. Inhaling these spores can result in Valley Fever. The medical name for Valley Fever is "coccidioidomycosis."
It is estimated that about one third of the people in the lower desert areas of Arizona have (or have had) had Valley Fever at some point in their life. Your chances of getting Valley Fever are about 1 out of 33, but the longer you live in the Desert Southwest the higher your chances of infection. There are about 100,000 new cases of Valley Fever each year. You don't have to live here to get it.. people visiting or traveling through the Southwest have been infected, too.
Symptoms of Valley Fever… about two thirds of the people who are infected never notice any symptoms, or experience mild symptoms that never require any treatment. More severe symptoms include fatigue, cough, chest pain, fever, rash, headache and joint aches. In some cases, red bumps may develop on the skin. In the most severe cases, a chest X-Ray is recommended to determine any possible lung damage.
HERE ARE A FEW FAQs ABOUT VALLEY FEVER IN ARIZONA:
How long does it take to develop symptoms of Valley Fever?
It normally takes between one and four weeks.
Are some people at higher risk of getting Valley Fever?
Valley Fever doesn't seem to play favorites, with all kinds of people at equal risk. However, construction workers, farm workers or others who spend time working in dirt and dust are most likely to get Valley Fever. You are also at higher risk if you are caught in dust storms, or if your recreation, such as biking or 4-wheeling, takes you to dusty areas. You can help minimize your risk of getting Valley Fever by wearing a mask if you have to be out in blowing dust.
Is there a cure for Valley Fever?
Currently, there is no vaccine for Valley Fever. Most people are able to fight off Valley Fever on their own without treatment, and it usually does not re-occur. For those that seek treatment, anti-fungal drugs (not antibiotics) are used. Although these treatments are often helpful, the disease may persist and extended treatment may be necessary.
Can pets get Valley Fever?
Yes, dogs and cats can get it and might need long term medication. Horses, cattle sheep and other animals can also get Valley Fever.
Is Valley Fever contagious?
No... You cannot get it from another person or from an animal.
Do people die from Valley Fever?
Less than 1% of the people who get Valley Fever die from it.
Are there Valley Fever experts that I can consult?
Most general practitioners and Family Physicians in Arizona have experience diagnosing and treating Valley Fever. It is best to see your Arizona primary care physician first… after reviewing your symptoms… your doctor can refer you to a specialist if needed.
