California is experiencing a surge in valley fever cases for the second consecutive year, driven by longer dry seasons attributed to climate change. From January to April, over 4,000 cases have been reported, marking a significant increase over previous years. Valley fever, caused by inhaling spores from the fungus coccidioides endemic to dry soils, becomes prevalent during dusty conditions. Researchers predict that changes in climate will exacerbate risks, leading to earlier and prolonged exposure to the disease, as evidenced by high-profile incident cases in Kern County.
Last year's recording breaking number of cases reached a total of 12,605; in 2023 there were more than 9,000 cases.
Climate change is expected to lead to drier spring and fall seasons and heavier winter rains.
Collection
[
|
...
]