Coccidioidomycosis, commonly known as Valley Fever, is a fungal infection caused by Coccidioides species found in soil. It primarily affects the lungs and is most common in arid and semi-arid regions of the southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central and South America. People acquire the infection by inhaling airborne fungal spores.
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Coccidioidomycosis was first described in Argentina in 1892. It gained significant attention in the United States during World War II, when large numbers of military personnel training in endemic areas of the Southwest developed the disease. This led to intensified research and public health awareness, cementing its common name \"Valley Fever\" due to its prevalence in California's San Joaquin Valley.
Coccidioidomycosis is acquired by inhaling microscopic fungal spores from contaminated soil. When soil is disturbed by wind, construction, or other activities, these spores become airborne and can be breathed into the lungs. The infection is not transmitted from person to person, nor from animals to humans.
Contagious Period: Varies by disease
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View WHO Resources →Disease information on Virus Watcher is reviewed by our Chief Epidemiologist, a former CDC lead analyst for FluSight forecasting. Outbreak data is aggregated from verified sources including BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.
Last reviewed: 2026-06-19
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