0
0
California health officials have issued a warning to thousands of attendees of the recent Lightning in a Bottle music festival, highlighting potential exposure to a dangerous and potentially deadly fungus known to cause Valley fever. The festival, which took place at Buena Vista Lake from May 21 to 25, drew over 20,000 people from various regions, including California counties, other states, and even countries abroad.
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has confirmed five cases of Valley fever linked to the festival, with three of the affected individuals requiring hospitalization. Officials caution that additional cases may still surface.
Valley fever, or coccidioidomycosis, is an infectious disease caused by the Coccidioides fungus, which thrives in the soil and dirt in specific areas of California. This fungus releases spores into the air when the soil is disturbed, making outdoor events and job sites in affected regions particularly risky.
“Valley fever is caused by inhaling spores of the Coccidioides fungus, which are released into the air when soil is disturbed,” the CDPH explained. “While most people exposed to this fungus do not develop Valley fever, the fungus can infect the lungs and cause respiratory symptoms, including cough, difficulty breathing, fever, and tiredness or fatigue. In rare cases, the Valley fever fungus can spread to other parts of the body and cause severe disease.”
The CDPH emphasizes that Valley fever is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from person to person. However, the potential for outbreaks increases with exposure to dust and dirt in areas where the fungus is prevalent.
Festival-goers who experience symptoms of respiratory infection that have not improved or persist longer than a week are urged to seek medical attention. Symptoms of Valley fever include cough, fever, fatigue, difficulty breathing, and chest pain. Health officials advise individuals to inform healthcare providers of their attendance at the music festival or travel to Kern County, where Valley fever is common.
Although the festival occurred two months ago, the CDPH notes that mild cases of Valley fever may have already resolved. However, individuals with more severe or long-term symptoms may still be undiagnosed.
As the situation unfolds, California health authorities continue to monitor and address the potential spread of Valley fever among those who attended the Lightning in a Bottle festival.
