Understanding Valley Fever: Tips for Staying Healthy

Key Takeaways

• Valley fever is a respiratory infection caused by a fungus that lives in the soil in the southwestern part of the United States and other select regions. 
• The majority of people exposed do not experience symptoms, but those who do may experience flu-like symptoms, like fatigue, night sweats, and fever. 
• Reduce your risk of Valley fever by taking steps like limiting outside exposure during wind and storms, wearing a protective mask outdoors, and getting a high-quality air filter inside the home.
• Most cases resolve on their own, but see a medical provider if your symptoms become unmanageable or if you have additional illnesses or health risks that could cause further complications.

Introduction

Although your first thought might be to attribute your fatigue and high temperature to the flu, it may be something else entirely. Valley fever may not be as common as other illnesses, but there are still thousands of cases in Maricopa County and the Phoenix Valley each year. All things considered, Valley fever is more than just another seasonal illness, as it is a possibility year-round and can be significantly uncomfortable for those who develop moderate to severe symptoms.

While Valley fever is not as prevalent as the cold or flu, it’s still important to be mindful of the potential threat and all the possible risks that can come along with it so you can avoid the discomfort it can cause. This guide highlights everything you should know about Valley fever, from the symptoms one might experience to the steps you can take to avoid contracting the illness. 

What Is Valley Fever?

Valley fever is an infection caused by the coccidioides fungus that can cause respiratory and flu-like symptoms in some individuals who are exposed. This fungus lives in the soil in the southwestern United States as well as parts of Mexico and Central and South America.

The disease is named from its original discovery in California’s San Joaquin Valley, but is considered highly endemic in southern Arizona, meaning it has a high presence in the local geography. Valley fever is a risk to humans as well as animals, including pets.

Why Valley Fever Is Prevalent in Central Arizona

Valley fever is prevalent in Central Arizona because the fungus that causes the infection thrives in the desert soil found in the state. The spores are then easily spread throughout the region, enhanced by the dusty geography that allows the dirt to be picked up and spread through the wind and dust storms. 

The dusty environment means that it’s also very common for outdoor activities like construction, digging, and agriculture to kick up airborne particles and spread the fungus. Maricopa County alone experiences anywhere between 6,000 and 11,000 cases a year due to the significant spread of the spores. 

Common Symptoms of Valley Fever

Most people do not experience symptoms from valley fever, as only 40% of people experience lung-infection symptoms. However, for the percentage that do, symptoms normally present within 1 to 3 weeks and can range from mild to more severe.

Mild symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Cough/shortness of breath
• Chest pain or tightness
• Headache/fever
• Night sweats
• Muscle aches/joint pain
• Rashes or bumps on the skin
• Loss of appetite

More severe symptoms include:

• Pneumonia
• Extreme fatigue and exhaustion
• Weight loss
• Lingering fever

In some rare and highly severe cases, the disease may spread throughout the body, which can result in:

• Bone pain 
• Back pain
• Swollen or painful joints

The vast majority of people who experience symptoms experience milder symptoms, as only 5-10% of people face severe symptoms, and only 1% experience disseminated disease. In rare cases, symptoms may return a few months after initially going away.

Who Is Most at Risk?

According to the Centers for Disease Control, the greatest risk factors for valley fever include:

• African-American race
• Filipino ethnicity
• HIV/AIDS
• History of an organ transplant
• Type 2 diabetes
• Pregnancy 
• Use of medications that weaken the immune system, like corticosteroids

In areas where the fungus is common, people who engage in occupations or activities like construction, agriculture, archaeology, or military training are also at an increased risk of exposure to the fungus through contact with soil and dust.

How Valley Fever Is Diagnosed

Valley fever is diagnosed by a doctor with the support of specialized lab testing, which ranges from blood testing to analyzing cultures under a microscope. If you visit your doctor because you think you might have Valley fever, they will likely take a blood test or cough sample and test for antibodies or look for the presence of the fungus.

Treatment Options for Valley Fever

In most cases, Valley fever symptoms will typically go away on their own within a few weeks to a few months with no need for treatment. However, it is still a good idea to monitor your symptoms as your immune system fights the infection, so you can seek support if symptoms are severe or do not improve. If advanced treatment is necessary, then doctors may prescribe an anti-fungal treatment.

The Infectious Diseases Society of America recommends treatment for patients who:

• Are immunosuppressed
• Have a severe illness
• Have diabetes
• Are of old age or have significant additional health risks
• Are pregnant
• Have African or Filipino ancestry

Tips for Staying Healthy and Reducing Your Risk

Although Valley fever is found abundantly in soil and difficult to fully prevent, you can mitigate your risk by taking a few proactive steps below.

Limit Exposure During Dusty Conditions

The number one way to reduce your risk of valley fever is to limit your exposure to dust and dirt that carries the fungus and its spores. Protecting yourself from disturbed, airborne particles is key to not breathing in the hazardous fungus and getting infected.

Take these precautions:

• Stay indoors during windy days or dust storms when possible.
• When driving, keep the windows up and use the “Recirculate” setting for air conditioning.
• Clean wounds diligently after exposure to dirt or dust.

Protect Yourself Outdoors

If you have no choice but to go outside, you can still reduce your risk of exposure by taking steps to protect yourself and limit the ability of spores to spread. It’s especially important to take precautions when spending time in areas where you’ll be directly exposed to soil and dust, like construction sites or on hikes. 

When you are outdoors, consider the following precautions:

• Wear an N95 face mask, especially in windy conditions or at construction sites, agricultural sites, and other dusty areas.
• If you will be engaging in outdoor activities, wet down the soil to limit the spread of dust.
• Protect open wounds with band-aids or other anti-microbial coverings.

Strengthen Respiratory and Immune Health

Respiratory and immune system health are key to building resistance to infections like Valley fever. By taking care of your health on a regular basis, you reduce your chances of contracting Valley fever and other respiratory diseases, like the cold or flu.

Take steps to strengthen your respiratory health by doing the following:

• Engage in cardiovascular exercise regularly
• Steer clear of smoking
• Stay hydrated
• Eat nutritious foods rich in vitamins and minerals, like whole foods, fruits, and vegetables
• Get a good night’s sleep each night
• Schedule regular check-ups with your doctor

Keep Indoor Air Clean

Keeping your indoor air clean keeps dangerous particles out, shielding you from the spores that cause Valley fever, mold, and other hazards. Use a HEPA filter for your home’s central air conditioning and heating, and dust surfaces regularly to prevent them from being kicked up and spread throughout the home during daily activities.

When to Seek Care From a Healthcare Provider

You should seek care for Valley fever from your healthcare provider if your symptoms do not improve after 1-2 weeks from the time they begin, if you find your symptoms getting worse, or if you have additional risk factors that pose a threat to your health. It is especially advised to seek the support of a medical professional if, at the time of getting sick, you already have a debilitating illness or other risk factors, like diabetes, pregnancy, underlying health conditions, or African or Filipino descent. 

Protect Yourself From Valley Fever With Arrowhead Health

Not everyone experiences significant symptoms from Valley fever, but it can pose uncomfortable health concerns for some, so you should be aware of the risks and take steps to avoid it where possible. If your symptoms are seemingly getting worse or you have health risks that could make your experience with the illness more severe, it’s best to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. 

The primary care doctors at Arrowhead Health Centers are prepared to help. As an experienced family care provider in Arizona, Arrowhead Health Centers will take the time to hear your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your unique healthcare needs. With three offices throughout the Phoenix Valley and the ability to schedule same-day or next-day appointments, it’s easy to make an appointment at a time that works for you. 

Schedule an appointment at one of our Arrowhead Health Centers locations today.

Frequently Asked Questions