Valley Fever cases are increasing across California, with significant rises reported in several counties, prompting public health officials to urge precautions for those in dusty environments.

The California Department of Public Health has noted a 26% increase in Sacramento County, an 83% increase in San Joaquin County, and a 62% increase in Stanislaus County.

“If a person is in an area where there's a lot of dust, there's a much higher chance of contracting it,” said Dr. Olivia Kasirye, Sacramento County's Public Health Officer.

Kasirye encouraged people who will be in dusty areas to wear a mask as a precaution and to dampen soil before digging. Valley Fever is transmitted through the air. The Coccidioides fungus lives in soil and dirt and if breathed in from dust in the air, it can in

See Full Page