Fungus Among Us: The Unseen Threat of Coccidioides and Valley Fever

Coccidioides, a fungus common in parts of the Americas, can cause severe infections like pneumonia and meningitis through inhaled spores.

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Climate change may be amplifying Valley Fever, a disease caused by Coccidioides.

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The scarcity of antifungal drugs and vaccines, coupled with diagnostic challenges, makes new fungal pathogens potentially catastrophic.

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Valley Fever cases are predicted to rise as the responsible fungus spreads from Texas to Washington State.

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The WHO listed Cryptococcus neoformans, a lung and brain-infecting fungus, as a major health risk in 2022.

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The CDC reported over 20,000 Valley Fever cases, causing an average of 200 annual deaths, in the US in 2019.

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The emergence of fungal pathogens via winds or global trade necessitates increased vigilance and prevention.

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Fungal spores caused a significant outbreak in Michigan in 2023, highlighting their threat.

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Future fungus prevention and control should focus on understanding the strength and movements of potent, resilient spores.

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