Coccidioidomycosis

Description

An infection, also called valley fever, caused by coccidioides fungi.

Overview

Coccidioidomycosis, also called valley fever, is caused by two types of fungi found in the soil of some areas. Anything that stirs up soil, such as farming, the wind or construction, can send fungal spores into the air. Breathing in the spores can cause infection. People with suppressed immune systems are particularly at risk.

Symptoms

Some people who breathe in the fungal spores have no symptoms, but for other people symptoms can range from mild to severe. Symptoms can start 1 to 3 weeks after contact with the spores. Symptoms might include fever, cough, tiredness, shortness of breath or rash.

Treatments

Mild cases may clear up with no treatment. People at high risk for complications, infections that don't clear, or infections that spread beyond the lungs may be prescribed antifungal medicine.