In 2023 Kern County saw an increase in Valley Fever

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — The Kern County Public Health Department announced a 24% increase in cases of Valley Fever from 2022 to 2023.

In a conference Thursday morning, health officials said 2023 was the second-highest year of Valley Fever cases reported in Kern County.

Valley Fever is an illness caused by a fungus that lives in the soil and dirt. About 60% of infected people will not develop symptoms but in severe infections, the fungus can infect the brain, joints, bone, skin, or other organs. In rare cases, infection can lead to death.

“So we would advise people not to go outside if it’s windy or dusty. If you’re driving through a wind storm, you would want to turn your car air on ‘recirculation’ so that you’re not getting that outdoor air inside,” Brynn Carrigan with the Kern County Public Health Department said. “If you are sensitive, or you have to be out, we would recommend that you wear respiratory protection. And then really, watch for any symptoms that may come up, like coughing, a cough that won’t go away, respiratory-like symptoms, headache, fatigue, and talk to your doctor.”

Most people who get Valley Fever fully recover and do not get the disease again. However, those with severe infections may need medication for several months.

The Valley Fever Institute encourages patients to ask their doctor about a Valley Fever test if they have had a respiratory illness for longer than 10 days, especially if the symptoms include a rash.

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