Valley Fever in Arizona: What You Need to Know
On August 25 this year, Phoenix was hit by one of the most intense dust storms in recent memory—spanning more than 50 miles and reaching up to 5,000 feet high. With wind gusts near 70 mph, huge amounts of soil and dust were lifted into the air.
Around that time, we saw more patients with cough, congestion, and fatigue. Some cases are simple colds or allergies—but in Arizona, they can also be Valley Fever.
What is Valley Fever?
Valley Fever (medical name: coccidioidomycosis ) is caused by Coccidioides , a fungus that lives a few inches below the soil surface in the Southwestern U.S. When dirt is disturbed by wind, construction, gardening, or off-roading, tiny spores can become airborne. If inhaled, they can reach the lungs and cause infection.
The fungus is endemic to Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and parts of Utah—meaning it naturally occurs here year-round.
Why are cases rising?
- Climate variability: Droughts followed by storms can favor Coccidioides growth and spore spread.
- Population growth: More people are moving to endemic regions like Arizona.
- Better testing & awareness: Clinicians test more often when coughs don’t improve with antibiotics.
- New residents: Without prior exposure, newcomers may be more susceptible.
See the CDC’s summary and data here.
When is risk highest in Arizona?
Exposure tends to peak during dry, dusty periods after rainy seasons—typically May–July and October–early December.
Higher risk activities: construction, landscaping, gardening, hiking during high-wind days, and off-roading/ATVs.
Higher risk people: adults over 60, those who are pregnant, have diabetes or weakened immune systems, or chronic lung disease.
Common symptoms
Symptoms usually start 1–3 weeks after exposure and can mimic pneumonia or bronchitis:
- Fever and cough
- Chest pain or shortness of breath
- Fatigue, muscle or joint aches
- Rash (often on the legs)
If you have a persistent cough or fatigue that’s not improving, ask your doctor about Valley Fever testing.
Prevention tips for desert living
- Stay indoors during dust storms; keep windows and doors closed.
- Moisten soil before digging or gardening.
- Wear an N95 mask if dusty exposure is unavoidable.
- Use high-quality air filtration at home, especially during monsoon season.
- Avoid outdoor activity on high-wind days when possible.
Treatment & recovery
Many healthy adults recover with rest, fluids, and time. For lingering or severe symptoms—or in higher-risk groups—your doctor may prescribe antifungal medication.
Because symptoms can look like bacterial pneumonia, getting an accurate diagnosis early can prevent complications.
“Valley Fever is part of life in Arizona, but awareness, prevention, and timely care make all the difference. At CEM we practice proactive, personalized medicine so you can stay active and healthy—even in the desert.”
— Dr. Tricia Molina, Concierge Family Physician
Prefer to call? (480) 945-2494
Valley Fever FAQs
How long does Valley Fever last?
For most people, symptoms improve within several weeks to a few months. Fatigue and low energy can sometimes last longer, even after other symptoms resolve. Your recovery time can depend on your immune health and whether antifungal treatment is needed.
Is Valley Fever contagious?
No, Valley Fever cannot spread from person to person. It’s caused by inhaling fungal spores from the soil, usually after wind or dust exposure. You can’t catch it from being around someone who’s sick.
Who is most at risk of Valley Fever?
People who spend time outdoors in dusty conditions—like hikers, construction workers, or ATV riders—are more likely to be exposed. Those over 60, pregnant women, and individuals with diabetes or weakened immune systems have a higher chance of developing more severe illness.
What are the early signs I should watch for?
The most common early symptoms include cough, fever, chest pain, fatigue, and sometimes a red rash on the legs. Because it can look like pneumonia or bronchitis, testing is important if symptoms persist more than a week or two.
Can Valley Fever come back after you recover?
Most people develop lasting immunity after infection and don’t get it again. However, in rare cases or in people with weakened immune systems, the infection can reactivate months or years later. Regular check-ins with your doctor can help monitor for that.
When should I see a doctor?
If you’ve had a cough, fatigue, or chest discomfort lasting more than two weeks—especially after a dust storm or outdoor exposure in Arizona—it’s best to schedule an appointment. Early testing can prevent more serious complications.
