Can valley fever spread from person to person?

No, valley fever (Coccidioidomycosis) does not spread from person to person. The disease is contracted by inhaling fungal spores from the soil, not through direct contact with an infected person. This means you cannot catch the infection through coughing, sneezing, or any other form of direct human contact with a patient who has valley fever [2].

This disease is caused by a fungus called Coccidioides, which lives in the soil of arid regions, particularly in the southwestern United States and parts of Mexico, Central America, and South America [3]. When the soil is disturbed—such as during construction, farming, or even by wind—the spores can become airborne and be inhaled by people, leading to infection [2].

How does a valley fever infection occur?

Valley fever infection occurs primarily when a person inhales Coccidioides fungal spores present in the soil. These spores are microscopic and cannot be seen with the naked eye. Once inhaled, they settle in the lungs where they can develop into an infection. The infection is not transmitted through touch, food, or water, but only through the inhalation of airborne spores [3].

Can pets get valley fever?

Yes, pets can contract valley fever in the same way humans do, by inhaling fungal spores from the soil [3]. However, like humans, the infection is not transmitted from pets to humans or between pets [3]. If you live in an area where Coccidioides fungus is prevalent, your pet may be at risk of infection.

Valley fever symptoms and when to see a doctor

Some people exposed to the fungal spores experience mild symptoms or no symptoms at all [3]. However, others may develop flu-like symptoms weeks or months after exposure, which may include fatigue, cough, fever, headache, muscle or joint pain, shortness of breath, night sweats, and a rash on the upper body or legs [3]. In rare cases, the infection can spread from the lungs to other parts of the body such as the skin, bones, joints, or brain, causing serious complications [3].

If you have visited an area where Coccidioides fungus is prevalent and develop any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor and inform them of your travel history [3]. This can help with early diagnosis. Diagnostic tests may include blood, body fluid, or tissue tests [2], as well as lung imaging such as chest X-rays or CT scans to evaluate the condition of the lungs [1].

You can learn more about valley fever by visiting Valley Fever (Coccidioidomycosis): A Fungal Respiratory Disease (Arabic).

Treatment and recovery from valley fever

Many people with valley fever recover on their own within weeks or months without the need for treatment [3]. However, doctors may prescribe antifungal medications in some cases, especially if symptoms are severe or if the infection has spread to other parts of the body [2]. Early treatment with antifungal medications can be life-saving in severe cases [3]. Because valley fever symptoms may mimic other illnesses such as bacterial or viral pneumonia, proper and early diagnosis is crucial to avoid delaying appropriate treatment [3].

Medical references

• Valley Fever
• About Valley Fever
• Tests for Lung Disease Tests for Lung Disease