Valley Fever Cases Surge After California Music Festival

Nineteen attendees and workers infected, prompting health warnings and highlighting climate change concerns.

At least 19 people contracted Valley fever at the Lightning in a Bottle festival in Kern County.
Eight individuals have been hospitalized due to the fungal infection.
Valley fever is caused by inhaling spores of the Coccidioides fungus found in soil.
Climate change is expanding the habitat of the fungus, increasing infection risks.
No vaccine exists for Valley fever, and severe cases can require long-term antifungal treatment.