Valley Fever Cases Surge in San Joaquin Valley Amid Seasonal Changes
The San Joaquin Valley is experiencing a rise in Valley Fever cases, a fungal disease caused by inhaling spores of the Coccidioides fungus. This increase is attributed to seasonal agricultural activities and the end of the school year, which lead to more outdoor exposure. Over 1,200 confirmed or suspected cases have been reported in the first quarter of 2026 across several counties, including Fresno, Kern, and Tulare. The disease, which can cause severe respiratory issues, has no vaccine and is often underreported due to misdiagnosis. Historically, Kern County has been a hotspot, with over 46,000 cases since 2001. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that actual case numbers could be significantly higher than reported figures.