What is valley fever

Valley Fever is an infection in the lungs that is caused by a fungus. The scientific name of the fungus is Coccidioides immitis. It grows in the soil in some of the states in the US. It is found to be growing mainly in the southern and central portions of California, New Mexico, Arizona and Texas. The southern portions of Nevada and Utah also have the growth of this fungus. You can find valley fever in certain parts of Mexico and Central and South America.

You might be acquiring valley fever, if you inhale one or more airborne spores of the fungus. When the desert soil is disturbed, the wind carries the spores with dust particles from the soil. The areas where the valley fever fungus grows in the soil are called endemic.

If you live, or travel through the endemic areas you may acquire valley fever. Military personnel who are on training in these areas are also exposed to risk. People working in professions such as construction, archaeological digging and excavations face an increased risk of exposure. While you are pursuing recreational activities such as biking or driving in the desert, you may be at an increased risk of acquiring valley fever.

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