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You are here : Healthopedia.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Valley Fever: Prevention & Expectations
      Category : Health Centers > Respiratory System (Lungs and Breathing)

Valley Fever

Alternate Names : San Joaquin Valley Fever, Coccidioidomycosis

Valley Fever | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring | Attribution


What can be done to prevent the infection?

Currently there is no way to prevent the infection. A person who lives in the areas where the infection is common should avoid exposure to dust and dry soil as much as possible.

What are the long-term effects of the infection?

Valley fever can form lung abscesses, or pus pockets, which can be difficult to treat. Occasionally the infection spreads throughout the body, causing lesions in the bones and other organs. In those cases, the mortality rate can reach 60%. In rare cases, the disease may recur within a few months. Valley fever tends to be more serious in dark-skinned people, pregnant women, or people with weakened immune systems.

What are the risks to others?

Valley fever may be spread to others through contaminated dressings of infected people.


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Valley Fever: Diagnosis & Tests

 

Valley Fever: Treatment & Monitoring

Author: John Riddle
Reviewer: Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
Date Reviewed: 08/29/01









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Page Last Updated: 30th May, 2006