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Valley Fever Cases Soar 1,200% Amid Climate Change

8/21/2025

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Summary

Story summary

California has seen a 1,200% increase in Valley Fever cases over 25 years, with over 5,500 cases in early 2025.
Experts attribute the rise to climate change, which may broaden the fungus's distribution in the western U.S.
Symptoms include fatigue and cough; severe cases can result in hospitalization or death.
No vaccine exists, and treatment options are limited, leading to ongoing research for a human vaccine.

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Story summary

California has seen a 1,200% increase in Valley Fever cases over 25 years, with over 5,500 cases in early 2025.
Experts attribute the rise to climate change, which may broaden the fungus's distribution in the western U.S.
Symptoms include fatigue and cough; severe cases can result in hospitalization or death.
No vaccine exists, and treatment options are limited, leading to ongoing research for a human vaccine.