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Valley Fever

Valley fever is a type of fungus infection. It is caused by the fungus called Coccidioides immitis. The fungus that causes valley fever is frequently found in the soil.

Target Group

Anybody can develop valley fever. However, farmers, construction workers, and others who engage in activities that disturb the soil are at maximum risk for valley fever. People with compromised immune systems are also at an increased risk for contracting valley fever. The fungus that causes valley fever is usually found in the soil of the southwestern United States, Mexico, and parts of Central and South America.

Type of Ailment

Valley fever may also be called coccidioidomycosis and disseminated valley fever.

Symptoms

In most cases, symptoms are not present. If symptoms are present, the most common symptoms are:

  • High fever
  • fatigue and tiredness
  • cough and cold
  • rash on the body
  • pain in the chest
  • loss of appetite
  • sweating
  • muscle aches
  • general pain in the body

Affected Area

Since it is a fungal infection and causes fever, it raises the body temperature and makes the person lethargic and sluggish.

Causes

The fungus which causes valley fever lives in soil and is spread through inhalation of airborne spores. The soil containing valley fever fungus may spread via construction, natural disasters, or wind, into the air. When these fungal spores are inhaled by people, they can develop valley fever.

Risk to Others

Valley fever does not spread from person to person.

Risk to Sufferer

Valley fever is a type of fungus infection which usually affects the lungs and cause damage to them. In severe cases, it can even cause death.

Treatment

Valley fever is can be treated with medication. Valley fever can be diagnosed through blood tests and treated with respective medication. Antibiotics and drugs which kill the fungus are used as effective treatment.

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