Valley fever, or coccidioidomycosis, is an infection caused by inhaling fungal spores found in soil and dust. Once considered primarily a Central Valley issue, the disease is now spreading more widely across California. In 2024, the state recorded nearly 12,500 cases—the highest ever reported—and 2025 is already on track for another record year. Recent reports show widespread sharp increases in Monterey and Santa Barbara but also farther north, in San Joaquin, Stanislaus, and Sacramento Counties.
Outdoor workers—particularly those in construction, agriculture, and other soil-disturbing jobs—face the greatest risk. Dusty, windy conditions or ground disturbance from excavation and grading can release spores into the air.
California law requires employers in ‘highly endemic’ counties to provide annual Valley fever awareness training to employees before they perform work likely to disturb dust. For additional information on determining if your agency is located in a highly endemic region, the training requirements, and control measures, read our Valley Fever PRISM Risk Simplified.
The California Department of Public Health has developed a Valley Fever Tailgate Training Guide, which covers the required training topics and can be utilized in the field to train employees. Additionally, a course titled “PRISM: Valley Fever Awareness” was created by PRISM Risk Control staff to help members meet this training requirement. The self-paced course is available on the Vector Solutions LMS platform.
As Valley fever cases continue to rise across California, awareness and preparation are key. By providing required training, adopting dust control practices, and encouraging workers to recognize symptoms early, employers can play an important role in protecting their teams.
If you have any questions about Valley fever, or accessing these resources, please reach out to Sarah Bruno.