A fungus hiding in Western dirt is sickening Americans at record pace, various publications reported in the past few months. A 2026 CDC study found that, in Arizona’s cooler northern plateaus, infections now run 6.6 times higher than in 2005–2007. In a study published in June 2025, available in the PubMed database, “a nationwide* total of 273,000 incident symptomatic coccidioidomycosis cases were estimated in 2019.” California recorded nearly 12,500 Valley fever cases in 2024, which reportedly is its highest ever. Federal modelers estimate up to 360,000 Americans get sick each year from fungus.

While infections typically affect the lungs, when spores reach the brain, they cause meningitis. As described by the CDC, meningitis is inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord. Among patients hospitalized for Valley fever, 63.6% needed procedures like brain shunts. In one study, half developed hydrocephalus, a buildup of brain fluid, and 39% suffered strokes.

“Too many patients are misdiagnosed and left without answers while their condition worsens,” said Congressman Vince Fong (CA) in September 2026. As always, the most important step is to protect yourself, so this misdiagnosis cannot occur. Protect yourself. While avoidance of dusty areas is optimal, it is not always possible. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, along with the CDC and various state governments, recommend wearing an N95 mask when in dusty outdoor environments, and when digging is involved. Ideally, stay fully indoors during dust storms. Also, be cautious about domestic or international travel: in 2023, a fungal meningitis outbreak tied to Mexican cosmetic-surgery clinics killed 12 of 24 US patients. See a doctor about any cough or headache that lingers.

*The number of Valley fever incidents are not recorded in every state, but of those who do, California, Arizona and the rest of the Southwest seem to have the greatest number of cases.