Arizona Health Officials Warned of Valley Fever Risks
As monsoon season hits Arizona, Banner Health has expanded diagnostic testing for the fungal infection.
Updated on Sept. 26, 2026 in Asthma
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Banner Health has issued a warning to Arizona residents regarding the increased risk of Valley fever during monsoon season, which drives dust and fungus spores through the air. In response, Banner Urgent Care has launched expanded testing protocols to improve the early detection of the disease.
Why it matters
Valley fever is not contagious, but monsoon-driven dust storms increase the likelihood of inhaling the Coccidioides fungus. Improved early detection helps patients avoid unnecessary antibiotics and repeated testing for respiratory symptoms.
The CDC estimates that the actual annual burden of Valley fever is 206,000 to 360,000 cases, roughly 10 to 18 times the 20,000 cases officially reported annually. Similarly, the estimated annual death toll ranges from 700 to 1,100, far exceeding the 200 annual deaths officially confirmed.
The players
Banner Health
A major nonprofit health system that provides comprehensive care and is currently overseeing expanded diagnostic efforts for regional respiratory diseases.
Anivive Lifesciences
A biotechnology company focused on the development of animal and human vaccines, including a candidate for Valley fever.
National Weather Service
The federal agency responsible for weather forecasts and climate monitoring, which provides data on storm patterns relevant to dust-borne pathogens.
The details
Valley fever is caused by inhaling Coccidioides fungus spores, which reside in desert soil and are spread by wind and weather patterns. Banner Urgent Care has introduced automatic diagnostic testing for patients presenting with pneumonia or red bumps on their shins, as these are common indicators of infection. Once an individual is infected, they acquire lifetime immunity, preventing them from contracting the disease a second time.
Timeline
August 21, 2026: Banner Urgent Care announced its expanded testing protocols.
September 24, 2026: The National Weather Service forecasted storms across the region.
Health Landscape
Valley fever management remains focused on early identification and symptom control while the medical field works toward a primary prevention tool. The development of the Anivive Lifesciences vaccine represents the most promising shift in the long-term arc of treating this endemic disease.
If you live in Arizona and develop persistent respiratory symptoms or red skin bumps, it is worth discussing the possibility of Valley fever with your primary care physician. Early diagnosis is important for managing the condition correctly and preventing unnecessary treatments.
The takeaway
Valley fever is a significant health concern in the American Southwest where two-thirds of all U.S. cases occur. If you find yourself experiencing unexplained respiratory issues during monsoon season, consult your doctor to discuss whether diagnostic testing is appropriate for your symptoms.
Further reading
For more on managing respiratory health and identifying triggers, visit Arizona Asthma.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Arizona Public Media.
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