How does coccidioidomycosis occur?

The most common way for someone to get Valley fever is by inhaling Coccidioides spores that are in the air. In extremely rare cases, people can get the infection from other sources, such as: From an organ transplant if the organ donor had Valley fever. From inhaling spores from a wound infected with Coccidioides.

How does coccidioidomycosis affect the body?

Because the fungus is inhaled, the disease typically affects the lung. In a small number of people, it may spread outside of the lung and affect other parts of the body. This serious complication is called “disseminated coccidioidomycosis.” Another serious complication that could occur is pneumonia.

How is coccidioidomycosis prevented?

Prevention

1. Avoid areas where you will be exposed to dirt or dust, if possible.
2. Close your windows and stay inside during dust storms.
3. Avoid activities like gardening, digging, or other yard work that can expose you to fungal spores.
4. Use air filters indoors.

Can coccidioidomycosis be spread from person to person?

Is Valley fever contagious? No. The fungus that causes Valley fever, Coccidioides, can’t spread from the lungs between people or between people and animals.

Is Coccidioides contagious?

Is coccidioidomycosis a mold?

Valley fever, also called coccidioidomycosis, is an infection caused by the fungus Coccidioides. The fungus is known to live in the soil in the southwestern United States and parts of Mexico and Central and South America. The fungus was also recently found in south-central Washington.

What is the other name for the coccidioidomycosis?

The scientific name for Valley fever is “coccidioidomycosis,” and it’s also sometimes called “San Joaquin Valley fever” or “desert rheumatism.” The term “Valley fever” usually refers to Coccidioides infection in the lungs, but the infection can spread to other parts of the body in severe cases (this is called “ …