B38: Coccidioidomycosis

Coccidioidomycosis, also known as Valley Fever, is a group of fungal infections caused by the Coccidioides species of fungus. These fungi exist in the soil in certain parts of the United States, Mexico and South America, and infection usually occurs when dust containing the fungus is inhaled. There are different forms of the disease, ranging from a mild form presenting with flu-like symptoms, to a more severe form that can spread to other parts of the body, including the skin, bones, and the central nervous system. Symptoms could include fever, cough, chest pain, and fatigue. In some cases, individuals may have no symptoms at all and the infection resolves on its own. However, in extreme cases, the disease can be progressive and may lead to serious complications such as meningitis and lung damage.