Summary:
- Valley fever is a fungal infection caused by the Coccidioides fungus, which is found in the soil of certain regions, including parts of California.
- The incidence of valley fever has been increasing in California, with over 7,000 cases reported in 2021, and it can cause severe respiratory illness and even death in some cases.
- Researchers are working to better understand the factors contributing to the rise in valley fever cases, including the impact of climate change, and to develop more effective prevention and treatment strategies.