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The disease is more likely to spread to other areas of the body in people who have weak immune systems. This includes people with AIDS, pregnant women, people who take medicines that weaken the immune system, and people with diabetes.

Talk with your doctor if your symptoms are severe or last more than a few weeks, or if you have a weak immune system and have valley fever.

How is valley fever diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and do a physical exam. He or she may ask if you have traveled in areas where valley fever occurs. You may have a chest X-ray and a blood test to look for the fungus. In some cases, the doctor may take samples of body tissues for a biopsy.

How is it treated?

Most people with valley fever get better without treatment. For severe cases, doctors may prescribe antifungal medicines. People who are more likely to have the disease spread to other areas of the body often get antifungal medicines even if they have no symptoms.

To make sure you are getting better, it's important to have follow-up visits with your doctor. You may have a chest X-ray or another blood test after several months to make sure.

There is no medicine to prevent valley fever. But you may be able to stay away from areas where valley fever is common.