Valley Fever Spikes: UCSF Fresno Leads Research

Valley Fever, an endemic infection, continues to affect thousands in California, with state health leaders reporting over 12,700 cases in 2024. Dr. Geetha Sivasubramanian of UCSF Fresno notes that while many infections are mild, a significant portion, around 40%, can lead to more symptomatic illness, and 10%-15% may spread to other parts of the body, complicating treatment.

Recognizing these challenges, UCSF Fresno is at the forefront of research to enhance Valley Fever diagnosis. Current efforts focus on overcoming barriers to testing and increasing physician awareness, emphasizing that Valley Fever should be considered for persistent respiratory symptoms. New technologies, such as PCR-based methods, are being explored to improve detection rates and accessibility.

The ultimate vision is to establish a centralized resource for patients with Valley Fever, consolidating testing and care. By improving diagnostic capabilities and raising awareness, medical professionals aim to significantly reduce the impact of this disease and save lives in Central California.