California's Valley Fever Cases Surge: Predicting 2025 Trends

California witnessed the largest tally of Valley fever infections recorded to date. in 2024 as stated by the state Department of Public Health.

In 2024, the total number of cases was 12,637, an increase from 9,210 cases in the prior year.

Valley fever, known as coccidioidomycosis or simply "cocci," is an infectious ailment. triggered by the Coccidioides fungus That thrives in the ground and dust within certain regions of California.

The cases seem to be rising. during the initial quarter In 2025, as reported by the state Department of Public Health.

According to the state data, there were 3,123 cases between January and March 31. The count stood at 3,011 during this period in 2024. In comparison, the first quarter of 2023 saw 1,701 instances.

Here are the quantities of Cases of valley fever during the initial quarter in comparison to the corresponding timeframe in earlier years.

• Monterey County , which encompasses Salinas, reported 217 cases up until March 31. In comparison, this same period in 2024 saw only 80 cases; whereas in 2023, it was just 22 cases.
• Riverside County The area, which encompasses Palm Springs, reported 150 valley fever cases up until March 31. In comparison, there were 100 cases in 2024 and 94 cases in 2023.
• Ventura County By March 31, there were 141 cases. The number dropped to 62 in 2024, compared with 45 cases in 2023.
• San Bernardino County , which encompasses Victorville, reported 61 cases by March 31. It recorded one case in 2024 and none in 2023.
• Tulare County , which encompasses Visalia, reported 164 cases by March 31. The number dropped to 146 in 2024 and further down to 70 in 2023.
• San Joaquin County The area encompassing Stockton reported 145 cases up until March 31. It saw 140 cases in 2024 and 29 cases in 2023.
• Shasta County , which encompasses Redding, did not report any cases until March 31. Between 2023 and 2024, it recorded two cases each year.
• Los Angeles County By March 31, there were 367 cases. The number increased to 462 in 2024, following 322 cases in 2023.
• San Diego County Had 33 instances by March 31. It reached 120 in 2024; there were 95 in 2023.
• Sacramento County There were 21 cases recorded up until March 31. The number increased to 23 in 2024, whereas in 2023 there were 14 cases.
• San Francisco County By March 31, there were 12 cases. The number increased to 23 in 2024, with seven occurring in 2023.
• San Luis Obispo County By March 31, there were 96 cases. In 2024, the number increased to 100 cases, whereas in 2023, it was 25 cases.

What are the ways one can contract Valley fever?

According to the information provided, an individual may contract Valley fever by inhaling a fungal spore present in soil and dust found outdoors. California State Public Health Department .

Individuals residing, working, or frequently visiting regions endemic with Valley fever are advised to minimize their exposure to potentially contaminated dust in order to decrease the likelihood of inhaling the causative fungi, as stated by authorities. Currently, there is no available vaccination for preventing this condition.

What are some ways to prevent Valley fever?

Other tips to stay safe:

• Remain indoors and ensure your windows and doors are shut tight whenever there's wind carrying dust, particularly during sandstorms.
• Ensure your vehicle’s windows are shut tight and utilize the recirculate option for airflow when traveling through concerning zones.
• Make an effort to steer clear of outdoor tasks that bring you into proximity with dust or soil, such as gardening and excavation.
• Cover exposed soil areas around your house with grass, vegetation, or alternative ground covers such as gravel or wooden chips.
• Make an effort to steer clear of construction or excavation sites, or think about using an N95 respirator face mask for protection.

More tips, including moistening the earth prior to excavation or unsettling grime, can be discovered at cdph.ca.gov .

James Ward was involved in compiling this report. .

Wes Woods II reports on West County for the Ventura County Star. You can reach him at wesley.woodsii@vcstar.com , 805-437-0262 or @JournoWes .

The article initially appeared on the Visalia Times-Delta. In 2024, California saw an unprecedented number of Valley fever cases. How will the figures for 2025 shape up?