Hi Petra. The illness you’re referring to is Valley Fever. Valley fever is caused by Coccidioides immitis, a fungus. The fungus produces spores that can be inhaled when they get into the air. Valley fever usually affects the lungs. When it affects other parts of the body, it is called disseminated valley fever.

Spores are hardy forms of the fungus that can live for a long time in harsh environmental conditions such as heat, cold, and drought. It is commonly found in the San Joaquin Valley. People driving through the area during a dust storm can get it.

Cases of valley fever were seen in persons exposed to billowing dust released by the January 1994 earthquake in Northridge, California.

The people who are most likely to contract valley fever are farmers, construction workers, and others who engage in activities that disturb the soil. People with weak immune systems and persons of certain racial groups can become seriously ill from the infection. Valley fever is treatable with fungus-killing medicines. Take Care…Don in creepy town