UCSF Fresno Launches Urgent Initiative to Combat Valley Fever

UPDATE: UCSF Fresno is urgently addressing the alarming rise in cases of Valley Fever, a complex disease impacting thousands of Californians annually. In 2024, state health officials reported over 12,700 cases statewide, highlighting a critical need for improved diagnosis and awareness.

Dr. Geetha Sivasubramania, Chief of Infectious Diseases at UCSF Fresno, stated, “Valley Fever is a very complex and complicated disease.” The infection, endemic to this region, often mimics other illnesses, leading to misdiagnosis. Recent data reveals the severity of the situation: 763 cases have been recorded in Fresno County, 518 in Tulare County, 148 in Merced County, and 70 in Madera County as of last month.

Dr. Sivasubramania emphasized that while 60% of those affected experience mild symptoms, the remaining 40% can suffer severe repercussions, including infections that spread beyond the lungs. Alarmingly, 10%-15% of patients may face life-threatening complications.

To combat this rising public health threat, UCSF Fresno is launching initiatives aimed at enhancing Valley Fever diagnosis. Dr. Sivasubramania aims to break down barriers to testing and improve physician awareness. “If you have someone coming in with pneumonia or bronchitis or a cough that’s not going away, you have to test for Valley Fever,” she insisted.

Research is underway for new diagnostic methods, including PCR-based technologies that could revolutionize testing at UCSF Fresno. “We want to unify all of these patients in one place,” Dr. Sivasubramania explained. “If you have a test for Valley Fever done and you don’t know where to send them, send them to us.”

The urgency of this initiative cannot be overstated. With thousands of lives potentially at stake, UCSF Fresno is committed to improving healthcare responses to Valley Fever through testing and education. As the situation develops, further updates will be provided to keep the public informed.

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