What is valley fever, fungal infection that led to hospitalisation of California music fest attendees? Signs and symptoms explained

Health officials advised attendees of the Lightning in a Bottle festival in Kern County to watch for symptoms like fever and respiratory discomfort after identifying five cases of Valley Fever, with three hospitalizations. Valley Fever, common in California’s San Joaquin Valley, can spread through inhaling dust containing fungal spores. Preventative measures include wearing N95 masks and avoiding dust exposure.