Intensifying Atmospheric Rivers Fuel Surge in Valley Fever Cases in California
Last week, California experienced a devastating weather event known as an atmospheric river, which resulted in record-breaking rainfall, flooding, and power outages. While the immediate impacts of the storm were evident, there is growing concern about the long-term health effects caused by the intensifying winter rainstorms in the state. Specifically, experts are warning about the spread of a deadly fungal disease called coccidioidomycosis, or valley fever.
Valley fever is caused by the spores of a fungus called Coccidioides, which thrives in regions with fluctuating rain-drought cycles. California’s recent history of extreme dryness followed by intense rainfall has created the perfect conditions for the fungus to flourish. The oscillation between extreme dryness and extreme wetness allows the fungi to colonize the soil during rain events and release spores when the ground dries out. These spores can then be inhaled by humans, leading to severe illness.
Last year, California experienced a surge in valley fever cases after a series of atmospheric rivers caused widespread flooding. The California Department of Public Health recorded 9,280 new cases of valley fever in 2023, the highest number ever documented. This alarming increase in cases has raised concerns among health experts, who predict that there could be an increased risk of valley fever in California in 2024.
The impact of valley fever on individuals varies depending on their immune system’s strength. While some people may never experience symptoms due to their immune system’s ability to fight off the fungal infection, others may develop chronic conditions that can lead to severe coughing, chest pain, weight loss, pneumonia, and even death. Antifungal medications can help manage the disease, but there is no cure.
Valley fever disproportionately affects certain populations, including Latinos, Filipinos, Black people, Native Americans, and pregnant individuals. Researchers are still trying to understand the reasons behind this disparity. The disease is often confused with COVID-19 due to similar initial symptoms such as fever, headache, and cough.
The rise in valley fever cases is not limited to California. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report a significant increase in cases across the United States, with a 780 percent rise from 1998 to 2019. Arizona, where two-thirds of valley fever diagnoses typically occur, has seen a 600 percent increase. The disease has also spread to new regions, including Southern California, Northern California, Oregon, and Washington states.
Experts believe that climate change is exacerbating the spread of valley fever. Rising global temperatures and the supercharging of atmospheric rivers due to human-made warming create ideal conditions for the fungus to thrive. As California continues to face more droughts and extreme weather events, the risk of valley fever will likely increase.
The future impact of valley fever in California depends on the state’s soil conditions. Landscape-level changes, such as housing and energy infrastructure development, disturb the soil and produce dust, which can carry the fungal spores. As developers expand into untouched areas and climate change continues to create favorable conditions for Coccidioides, valley fever poses a growing threat to public health.
Last year’s surge in valley fever cases serves as a warning of what may come. Experts predict that the number of cases will continue to rise, highlighting the urgent need for public awareness, testing, and research into prevention and treatment strategies. Valley fever is becoming an increasingly big story in California, and it is crucial that measures are taken to mitigate its impact on public health.
