Questions

The fungus responsible for this infection is Coccidioides, specifically Coccidioides immitis or Coccidioides posadasii.

Key Facts:

• The disease caused by this fungus is coccidioidomycosis, commonly known as Valley Fever.
• It is endemic to the Southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona, California's Central Valley, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, and northern parts of Mexico.

Transmission:

• The fungus thrives in arid, sandy soil and is spread when its spores (arthroconidia) are inhaled from disturbed soil or dust.

Symptoms:

• Non-productive cough
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Chest pain
• Joint pain (arthralgia)
• In some cases, it may cause a rash or disseminate to other parts of the body (e.g., skin, bones, meninges) in immunocompromised individuals.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

• Diagnosed via serology, culture, or imaging (chest X-ray or CT scan).
• Mild cases are often self-limiting, but severe cases may require antifungal treatment, such as fluconazole or itraconazole.

Preventive measures include minimizing exposure to dust in endemic areas, especially for individuals at high risk (e.g., those with weakened immune systems or pregnant women).