TUCSON, AZ (Tucson News Now) -
Many Arizonans are coming down with Valley Fever and doctors say numbers of cases will continue to rise as dust storms increase over the years.
With many people enjoying the outdoors in places like Mt. Lemmon and other areas, Valley Fever cases continue to climb; as of December 2012 more than 12,000 cases have been reported in Arizona.
Valley Fever is a fungal infection that develops after inhaling a fungus called coccidioides, that is common to the desert climate. Doctors say the fungus thrives in Arizona and that the weather is just right for the fungus to find more and more hosts.
The spore is released from the dirt, by wind or other disturbances and with Arizona seeing an increase in dust storms over the years, doctors are encouraging people to stay inside and not take the risk.
They are also recommending that if caught outside during a dust storm, people cover their mouth and nose with their shirt, or anything they can find to keep the dust from entering their lungs.
Copyright 2013 Tucson News Now All rights reserved.
