Banner Health Warns of Valley Fever Risk During Monsoons

Officials urge residents to remain vigilant as monsoon activity spreads fungal spores throughout Arizona.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Asthma

Bold vector editorial illustration showing swirling desert dust clouds over arid, cracked soil, evoking the environmental risk of fungal spores. — Banner Health has updated testing protocols for Valley fever as monsoon activity increases the risk of fungal spore exposure across Arizona. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you feel confident in your ability to recognize symptoms of regional environmental diseases like Valley fever?

Banner Health is alerting Arizonans to an increased risk of Valley fever, a disease caused by inhaling fungal spores from regional soil that are stirred up by monsoon storms. The healthcare system has expanded its testing protocols to better address the potential for infections in endemic areas.

Why it matters

Monsoon activity heightens the threat of fungal spore spread, making early detection critical to preventing unnecessary antibiotic use. Recognizing symptoms early can prevent diagnostic delays and improve patient outcomes for those exposed to the fungus.

Valley fever results in an estimated 700 to 1,100 deaths annually in the U.S. Approximately two-thirds of all national cases occur within the Tucson and Phoenix regions.

The players

Banner Health

This large nonprofit health system operates hospitals and clinics throughout Arizona.

Anivive Lifesciences

This biotechnology company is currently developing a vaccine for Valley fever.

National Weather Service

This federal agency is responsible for forecasting the monsoon conditions that contribute to spore dispersal.

The details

Valley fever is caused by Coccidioides fungus spores, which travel long distances via wind and dry desert soil. Patients in endemic areas who exhibit symptoms such as pneumonia or red bumps on their shins are now subject to automatic testing protocols.

August 21, 2026: Banner Urgent Care announced its expanded testing protocols.
Thursday afternoon and evening: The National Weather Service forecasted showers and thunderstorms in Arizona.

Health Landscape

The ongoing work by the Anivive Lifesciences Valley fever vaccine development program marks a major shift in managing the disease. This effort follows decades of reliance on symptom management and aims to move beyond current preventative limitations.

Residents should monitor themselves for persistent cough, night sweats, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss during monsoon season. If these symptoms occur, seeking medical attention early can lead to immediate testing and avoid the complications of misdiagnosis.

The takeaway

Valley fever is not contagious, so transmission occurs strictly through environmental exposure rather than person-to-person contact. Protecting yourself requires limiting exposure to dust during wind events, especially if you are in a high-risk area for fungal spores.