advertisement
29 January 2024
Arizona, with its picturesque desert landscapes and abundant sunshine, draws visitors from around the world. However, beneath this postcard-perfect surface lies a hidden threat, a disease that silently lurks in the arid soils. It’s called Valley Fever, and it’s a unique and often underestimated menace of the American Southwest.
Valley Fever, medically known as coccidioidomycosis, doesn’t originate from a virus or bacteria but rather from a fungus. The causative agent, Coccidioides, resides in the region’s soil, primarily in the southwestern United States and parts of Mexico and Central and South America.
This fungus thrives in arid environments, making Arizona’s deserts a prime breeding ground. When the soil is disturbed—whether through construction, farming, or even just a gust of wind—it releases microscopic spores into the air. These spores can be inhaled by anyone in their vicinity, setting the stage for an infection.
The majority of individuals exposed to Valley Fever spores won’t experience any symptoms or will have only mild flu-like symptoms. However, for some, particularly those with weakened immune systems, Valley Fever can become a serious and even life-threatening illness. The symptoms can range from fever and fatigue to cough, chest pain, and skin rashes.
Valley Fever cases have been on the rise, not just in Arizona but throughout the southwestern United States. In Arizona alone, thousands of cases are reported annually. The reasons for this increase aren’t entirely clear, but factors like population growth, construction activity, and climate change could contribute. What’s more alarming is Arizona accounts for two-thirds of all Valley Fever infections in the United States, despite the disease being rare nationally and classified as an orphan disease.
One of the key challenges of Valley Fever is that its symptoms mimic those of many other illnesses. This often leads to misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis, which can worsen the patient’s condition. Early detection through blood tests is crucial for timely treatment.
Arizona has taken significant steps to combat Valley Fever. The Valley Fever Center for Excellence at the University of Arizona is at the forefront of research and public awareness efforts. Their work includes educating healthcare professionals, conducting research to understand the disease better, and working on potential vaccines.
While there is no guaranteed way to avoid Valley Fever in endemic areas, precautions can significantly reduce the risk. These include wearing masks during dust storms, avoiding outdoor activities on windy days, and dampening the soil before digging or disturbing it.
Valley Fever may be the silent scourge of the Southwest, but awareness and understanding are powerful weapons against it. Visitors and residents alike should educate themselves about the disease, take precautions, and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms. With continued research and public health initiatives, Arizona and its neighbors aim to unmask this hidden menace and protect the health of their communities.
advertisement
Arizona is home to an incredible array of museums, botanical gardens, historical landmarks, and art centers that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the state. However, for many individuals and families, the cost of visiting these treasures can be a barrier. Enter Act One’s Culture Pass program, a remarkable initiative that opens doors to Arizona’s arts and culture, making it accessible to everyone, from students to retirees and under-resourced families. What is the Culture Pass? The Culture Pass is a free program offered by Act One, a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing access to the arts across Arizona. Through partnerships
Arizona may have seen some relief in median rents from the end of 2023 to 2024, with some cities experiencing drops of up to 10% due to more available housing and the departure of pandemic-era residents. However, despite these decreases, the state remains relatively expensive in terms of housing. Arizona ranks higher in housing affordability than the rest of the nation. According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, Arizona has the 14th highest housing wage in the U.S. This is the average amount an individual must earn to afford a “modest” one-bedroom apartment. Why Is Living Alone in Arizona
When it comes to iconic desert landscapes, both Joshua Tree National Park and Saguaro National Park stand out for their unique features. While both are desert regions with distinctive plant life—Joshua Trees and Saguaro Cacti—they each offer vastly different experiences in terms of scenery, wildlife, and overall ambiance. For anyone who’s already visited Joshua Tree and is considering a trip to Saguaro, here’s how the two compare. Joshua Trees vs. Saguaro Cacti Joshua Tree is known for its granite outcrops and expansive, rugged landscapes. The park’s namesake Joshua Trees—strange and otherworldly—dot the Mojave Desert, creating a scene filled with grandeur.
Arizona, particularly the Valley, is home to a vibrant pizza scene, from classic New York-style slices to deep-dish masterpieces. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, finding the best pizza in Phoenix and its surrounding areas can be a delightful (albeit deliciously difficult) task. Here’s a rundown of some of the most beloved pizzerias in the Valley, according to the locals. advertisement 1. The Red Devil A favorite for many, The Red Devil has been serving up delicious pizza and wings since the early 1960s. Known for its consistently great quality, the original location at 30th Street and McDowell is
