UCSF Fresno Urgently Aims to Enhance Valley Fever Diagnoses

UCSF Fresno,
Dr. Geetha Sivasubramania,
California Department of Public Health,
Valley Fever,
12,700 (cases in 2024),
Fresno County,
763 (cases),
Tulare County,
518 (cases),
October 2023

URGENT UPDATE: UCSF Fresno is launching a critical initiative to improve the diagnosis of Valley Fever, a disease that impacted over 12,700 Californians in 2024 alone. Health officials are sounding the alarm as cases surge, particularly in the Central Valley, where the need for better detection methods is becoming increasingly urgent.

Dr. Geetha Sivasubramania, Division Chief of Infectious Diseases at UCSF Fresno, emphasized the complexity of Valley Fever, stating, “It is not as simple as pneumonia. It is an endemic infection in this part of the country.” The latest data shows alarming case numbers in local counties: 763 confirmed cases in Fresno County, 518 in Tulare County, 148 in Merced County, and 70 in Madera County as of last month.

Despite the disease being mild in about 60% of cases, affecting symptoms similar to flu and pneumonia, Dr. Sivasubramania warns that 40% of patients may experience more severe infections. “In about 10%-15%, it can spread beyond the lungs, impacting other parts of the body,” she explained.

In response to this escalating health concern, UCSF Fresno is actively researching innovative testing methods to enhance diagnosis rates. Dr. Sivasubramania shared her vision: “We want to unify all of these patients in one place. If you have a test for Valley Fever done and you don’t know where to send them, send them to us.” This initiative aims to break down barriers that hinder timely testing and treatment.

Dr. Sivasubramania highlighted the critical role of awareness, stating, “We want to raise awareness among physicians and urgent care doctors. If a patient presents with pneumonia or a persistent cough, testing for Valley Fever must be a priority.” This proactive approach is crucial given the region’s endemic nature of the disease.

UCSF Fresno is currently exploring state-of-the-art PCR-based testing methods as part of their ongoing studies. Dr. Sivasubramania emphasized the need for funding to kickstart this vital research, which could save countless lives in the future.

As this situation develops, the medical community urges local residents and healthcare providers to remain vigilant and informed about Valley Fever. The push for improved diagnostic capabilities at UCSF Fresno reflects a broader commitment to public health and patient care in California’s Central Valley.

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