The Public Health Department reported that Valley fever cases reached all time higher in 2024 than ever before in San Luis Obispo County.
According to The Tribune, on Tuesday, April 8 2025, the health department reported 482 cases in 2024, nearly double the number of cases reported in 2023.
Valley fever is a disease caused by a fungus that lives in soil, including in San Luis Obispo County and the Central Valley region.
Health Officer Dr. Penny Borenstein stated, "if residents experience flu-like symptoms such as a fever and cough for more than a few weeks, they should talk with their healthcare provider and ask to be tested for Valley fever.”
A significant amount of rainfall after the periods of drought may increase the amount of fungus growing in the soil, the agency added.
How to reduce the risk of Valley fever?
“The best way to reduce your risk is to avoid breathing dust in the air. It would be nearly impossible to avoid all exposure to dirt, but you can limit your risk.” the agency added.
Notably, the public health department highlighted the risks of its spread not only among humans but also among animals, as they are equally prone to this disease.
