After 5 individuals had been identified with Valley fever following the 2024 Lightning in a Bottle pageant, the California Division of Public Well being (CDPH) has inspired attendees to hunt medical consideration in the event that they too are experiencing signs.
Valley fever is a fungal an infection usually brought on by inhaling spores which can be kicked as much as the floor from the soil. The an infection may cause respiratory signs like fever, cough, fatigue, shortness of breath, and extra.
Three of the 5 attendees identified following Lightning in a Bottle, which occurred Might 22-27, had been hospitalized, KTLA reported. In a press release, the pageant’s organizers mentioned the CDPH had warned them of a possible “massive enhance in 2024 circumstances [of Valley fever] on account of moist climate” and so they’re working with the state division to develop preemptive measures in opposition to it.
“We prioritize the well being and security of all our patrons and are in communication with the California Division of Public Well being and Kern County Public Well being Division to study extra about Valley fever,” the assertion reads, “and any preventative measures we are able to take to cut back Valley fever danger for future pageant occasions, and to make data obtainable to this yr’s attendees.”
It is also value noting that Valley fever isn’t contagious, per the CDPH, so attendees don’t have to fret about spreading the an infection ought to they expertise signs. The group has launched a web-based survey to collect extra data.
