Something in the Southern Utah Air Is Making People Sick
Residents of Southern Utah are seeing something unexpected happen when they cough, feel tired, or shrug off a “stubborn cold.” Health officials are pointing to an old-enemy with new momentum: a fungus in the soil, stirred up by growth and dust.
“Valley Fever is caused by Coccidioides, a fungus that lives in the soil but becomes airborne when dust is disturbed, such as by construction or high winds,” said Dr. Katharine Walter, epidemiologist at the University of Utah. Utah Epidemiology University of Utah Healthcare
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Recent reporting show that cases in our region jumped sharply: “Cases of Valley Fever have increased 62 percent in southern Utah as development disturbs soil containing the dangerous fungus.” FOX 13 News Utah
What’s driving the surge? Rapid move-ins across the region appear to be stirring the red Utah dust more than ever. Every housing development, scraped hillside or windy desert drive may be kicking up fungal spores that people then inhale.
At the same time, another illness is rearing its head. According to a local report, “Washington County usually averages 10 - 15 cases of whooping cough per year… as of Friday, there are 28 confirmed cases and one child in the hospital.” FOX 13 News Utah
And, per the statewide health site, “Whooping cough is highly contagious and most harmful to infants and children.” Utah Epidemiology
And, per the statewide health site, “Whooping cough is highly contagious and most harmful to infants and children.” Utah Epidemiology
Here’s the short version:
- The beautiful red-rock desert you see? It’s also home to a fungus that lives in the soil and becomes airborne when the earth is disturbed. Utah Epidemiology
- Southern Utah’s construction boom and influx of new residents are kicking up more dust—and more risk.
- Meanwhile, whooping cough is making rounds locally.
- If you have a lingering cough or feel unusually fatigued after exposure to dusty ground or construction sites, it’s worth asking a provider whether it might be more than just “the flu.”
Stay healthy as we go into this Holiday Season. Take your vitamins, eat healthy foods that boost your immune system and get plenty of sleep and exercise.
Moqui Cave Is A Utah Hidden Gem
Kanab may be small but it's home to a ton of really cool scenery and history if you know where to look. Moqui Cave is one place that you'll definitely want to visit if you're in Kanab. Or, make a day trip out of it.
Moqui Cave has seen famous movies, stars, thousands of historical artifacts, and bar fights. It's a must-see destination!
Gallery Credit: Elle Cabrera
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