Valley Fever

Alternate Names : San Joaquin Valley Fever, Coccidioidomycosis

What can be done to prevent the infection?

Currently there is no way to prevent the infection. A person who lives in the areas where the infection is common should avoid exposure to dust and dry soil as much as possible.

What are the long-term effects of the infection?

Valley fever can form lung abscesses, or pus pockets, which can be difficult to treat. Occasionally the infection spreads throughout the body, causing lesions in the bones and other organs. In those cases, the mortality rate can reach 60%. In rare cases, the disease may recur within a few months. Valley fever tends to be more serious in dark-skinned people, pregnant women, or people with weakened immune systems.

What are the risks to others?

Valley fever may be spread to others through contaminated dressings of infected people.