Researchers at the University of Utah are studying the spread of a fungal respiratory infection known as Valley fever, which is increasingly prevalent in the dust and soil of the state. Spearheaded by epidemiologist Katharine Walter, the team is attempting to determine the areas most at risk of the infection as climate change continues.
Valley fever cannot be spread from person to person, making it difficult to track. It grows in soil and remains below the surface, making detection challenging. Symptoms are flu-like and can include fatigue, cough, fever, and muscle aches, among others. The disease can often go misdiagnosed, delaying critical treatment.
The research team received a $375,000 grant from the Burroughs Wellcome Fund to support their investigation and raise awareness about the infection. Their effort is particularly focused in Washington County, identified as having the highest prevalence of Valley fever. Valuable samples collected from the area will aid in determining where the fungus thrives.
Experts warn, due to climate shift, Valley fever is not the only disease projected to change. Education about the detection and prevention of these diseases is vital, especially for those working in dusty, open-air professions like construction or farming. The team’s aim is to provide this much-needed information and highlight the urgency of this environmental health matter.
Vocabulary List:
- Prevalent (adjective): Widespread in a particular area or at a particular time.
- Epidemiologist (noun): A specialist in the study of patternscausesand effects of health and disease conditions in defined populations.
- Respiratory (adjective): Relating to the organs of breathing.
- Fungal (adjective): Relating to or caused by a fungus.
- Misdiagnosed (adjective): Incorrectly diagnosed by a medical professional.
- Prevalence (noun): The fact or condition of being prevalent commonness.
