By Dr. Katherine Schlaerth, M.D.
In its vegetative stage, Cocci lives quietly in the soil as microscopic filaments called mycelia. These branching structures form a network beneath the ground. But under the right conditions, a dramatic change can occur. The mycelia produce rectangular spores called arthroconidia that can become airborne when the soil is disturbed.
These spores are extremely small and can travel in dust. When inhaled, they can reach the tiny air sacs in the lungs. This can happen to many mammals, whether it is a dog, a cow, a farmer working in the fields, or a teenager practicing football on a dusty afternoon.
You do not need to remember the scientific terms. What matters is this. If you live in an area with hot, dry summers and dusty conditions, you may inhale these spores without ever knowing it. Once inside the lungs, that single spore can pull what might be described as a “vampire stunt,” transforming into a parasite within lung tissue. 
After entering the lungs, the organism enlarges and develops into a structure called a spherule. Inside the spherule, smaller structures called endospores begin to form. When the spherule ruptures, it releases these endospores, which then grow into additional spherules. This is how the infection spreads within the lungs.
Fortunately, the immune system often responds effectively. In many people, immune cells are able to control the infection, and symptoms may be mild or even go unnoticed.
However, researchers continue to study why some individuals are more likely to develop severe disease or have the infection spread beyond the lungs. Studies have shown that individuals of Filipino, Hispanic, and African American descent may be at higher risk, along with those who have weakened immune systems.
So where does this diabolic fungus live when it is quietly waiting in the environment? Cocci is found in soil several inches below the surface and often thrives in dry, dusty regions. It has a particular preference for areas like rodent burrows.
Climate also plays an important role. Cocci grows well in regions with hot summers and short, dry winters. Periods of drought followed by rainfall can increase its growth. Activities that disturb the soil, such as farming, construction, digging, or even earthquakes, can release spores into the air.
Even contaminated clothing or tools can carry dust that contains the fungus. And for those working in laboratory settings, opening a culture plate of this organism without proper precautions can be dangerous.
Valley Fever is not spread from person to person. It begins in the soil, in the dust beneath our feet.
Understanding how Cocci lives and spreads is an important first step in recognizing and preventing Valley Fever in our communities.
Dr. Katherine Schlaerth is a physician and educator with board certifications in family medicine, pediatrics, geriatric medicine, and pediatric infectious diseases. She combines her clinical work with a strong commitment to medical education and mentorship. At Clinica Sierra Vista, she is especially passionate about teaching and guiding residents as they develop the skills needed to serve their communities. Dr. Schlaerth also completed a fellowship in Guatemala, bringing a global perspective to her work in patient care and training the next generation of physicians.
An accomplished author, her latest book, The Ways Our Bodies Age, delves into the science of aging. To learn more about her journey and her new book, read her full bio at the link below.
WIC is a program that helps families with food and nutrition. Call us at (661) 862-5422 or send a message, and we’ll help you see if you qualify.
Here are some ways you might qualify:
You also need to think about your family’s income. Here are the monthly income limits for family sizes:
This income limit is based on 185% of the Federal Poverty Level, and these amounts will be effective from April 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026.
Also, if you’re pregnant, the baby counts as part of your family size when figuring out if you qualify.
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