Valley fever on the rise in California due to climate extremes

California's extreme weather patterns, swinging between drought and heavy rains, are contributing to a significant increase in Valley fever cases.

Zoya Teirstein reports for Grist.

In short:

• Intense atmospheric rivers and prolonged droughts in California create ideal conditions for the spread of Valley fever, a fungal disease.
• The disease, caused by Coccidioides spores, can lead to severe respiratory issues and disproportionately affects certain ethnic groups and pregnant individuals.
• Climate change is exacerbating the spread of Valley fever, with cases increasing dramatically in recent years.

Key quote:

"What kind of disease do you see a 1,000 percent increase in a matter of two decades?"

— Shangxin Yang, clinical microbiologist at UCLA.

Why this matters:

This surge in Valley fever highlights the direct impact of climate change on public health. It underscores the need for climate action and adaptation strategies, particularly in regions prone to extreme weather events, to mitigate health risks and protect vulnerable populations.

Pollution, climate change and the global burden of disease.