Coccidioidomycosis Prevention Tips at Lightning in a Bottle Festival

Deadly Fungal Infection at California Music Festival

More than 20,000 attendees at the Lightning in a Bottle music festival in California may have been exposed to a dangerous fungal illness known as Valley fever . The California Department of Public Health ( CDPH ) is investigating five cases of Valley fever that occurred among people who traveled through Kern County to attend the festival near the city of Bakersfield from May 22 - 27.

Valley fever symptoms include cough , fever , fatigue , difficulty breathing , and chest pain . The disease is not contagious and can not spread from human to human . The infectious disease is caused by the Coccidioides fungus that grows in the soil and dirt in some areas of California . While most people exposed to this fungus do not develop Valley fever , the fungus can infect the lungs and cause respiratory symptoms.

The festival is held at the Buena Vista Aquatic Recreation Area near Bakersfield , California . Health officials believe there are likely more cases of Valley fever among the 20,000 people who attended the festival . Valley fever affects the respiratory system and can be contracted by inhaling coccidioides fungal spores found in the deserts of Arizona and soil of the lower San Joaquin Valley in California.

Preventive Measures and Future Concerns

Valley fever does not have a vaccine , but treatments are available . Experts believe the increase in Valley fever cases over the past 20 years in the west may be related to the climate crisis . The spores become airborne when soil is disturbed , and activities like farming , construction , and strong winds can spread the spores.

The Lightning in a Bottle festival has been held at the Buena Vista Aquatic Recreation Area since 2019 . Despite the growing threat of infections , the festival draws thousands of attendees every year . The organizers have stated that they are working with health officials to prevent widespread infections at future events and prioritize the health and safety of all patrons.

With cases of Valley fever expected to increase in California this year , it is crucial for event organizers and attendees to take preventive measures and stay informed about the risks associated with Fungal infections . Symptoms of Valley fever can range from mild to potentially deadly , and it is important for individuals to seek medical attention if they experience any flu - like symptoms.