After five people were diagnosed with Valley fever following the 2024 Lightning in a Bottle festival, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has encouraged attendees to seek medical attention if they too are experiencing symptoms.
Valley fever is a fungal infection typically caused by inhaling spores that are kicked up to the surface from the soil. The infection can cause respiratory symptoms like fever, cough, fatigue, shortness of breath, and more.
Three of the five attendees diagnosed following Lightning in a Bottle, which took place May 22-27, were hospitalized, KTLA reported. In a statement, the festival’s organizers said the CDPH had warned them of a potential “large increase in 2024 cases [of Valley fever] due to wet weather” and they’re working with the state department to develop preemptive measures against it.
“We prioritize the health and safety of all our patrons and are in communication with the California Department of Public Health and Kern County Public Health Department to learn more about Valley fever,” the statement reads, “and any preventative measures we can take to reduce Valley fever risk for future festival events, and to make information available to this year’s attendees.”
It’s also worth noting that Valley fever is not contagious, per the CDPH, so attendees do not have to worry about spreading the infection should they experience symptoms. The organization has launched an online survey to gather more information.