Could dogs help predict spread of Valley fever in people?
Could dogs help predict spread of Valley fever in people? California researchers think dogs can help predict the spread of Valley fever, which has surged in recent years, likely due to climate change.
Show Caption
Hide Caption
6 Of The Smartest Dog Breeds You Should Know About
Dogs are often much more intelligent than we humans give them credit for. Here are six of the smartest dog breeds and their positive traits.
unbranded - Lifestyle
Researchers in California believe dogs might be able to predict the spread of Valley fever, which has spiked nationwide, likely due to climate change.
With more than a third of the contiguous U.S. in a drought, there has been a surge in the dangerous airborne flu-like disease in humans.
But Valley fever is also common in dogs who dig deep in dirt and sniff close to the ground, according to University of California researchers Jane Sykes and Simon Camponuri. They published a recent study in the Journal of Infectious Diseases.
What is Valley fever?
Valley fever is a lung infection caused by breathing in spores from Coccidioides, a fungus that lives in the soil and dust in certain regions of the United States and the world, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Valley fever does not spread between people or between people and animals. But, Sykes and Camponuri believe the dog data could be used as a warning sign for where humans should look out for the disease.
Symptoms of Valley fever range from fever, cough, and chest pain to severe complications, including pneumonia and meningitis, UC Berkeley public health researchers say. Approximately 5 to 10% of people who get Valley fever will develop serious or long-term problems in their lungs, the CDC said.
Dogs are 'sentinels for human infections'
Sykes and Camponuri evaluated almost 835,000 blood antibody tests taken from dogs nationwide between 2012 and 2022. Their research concluded that nearly 40% of dogs tested positive for the disease. The study said since dogs are closely associated with humans, the canines "serve as rough proxies" for human environmental exposures.
"Dogs are good sentinels for human infections," Sykes, a University of California, Davis, professor, told USA TODAY. "They can help us understand not only the epidemiology of the disease, but they're also models to help us understand the disease in humans."
Is change coming?: An omega block is ruling our weather. When will it finally budge?
About 60 million U.S. households own at least one dog, representing nearly half of all pet-owning households in the country, according to 2024 statistics by the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Valley fever is spreading
Sykes and Camponuri tracked positive results by location. Their research showed that the presence of Valley fever in dogs spiked nearly six times from just 2.4% of U.S. counties in 2012 to 12.4% in 2022.
The study also found that the Valley fever cases in dogs spread over time, mostly centered in Arizona and California. Valley fever does not spread between people or between people and animals. But, Sykes and Camponuri believe the dog data could be used as a warning sign for where humans should look out for the disease.
"We'd like more communication and awareness about Valley fever between public health and animal care practitioners, clinicians and environmental health scientists." Camponuri, a University of California, Berkeley researcher, told USA TODAY.
Valley fever cases in humans tripled over the past two decades, according to another study released in March that Camponuri also researched.
"Our findings emphasize the importance of adapting public health mitigation strategies to changing climate conditions," Camponuri said. "By understanding shifts in transmission season timing, we can take proactive steps to warn the public about increases in disease risk when they are most likely to occur."
Human cases likely higher than reported
The CDC reports it receives between 10,000 to 20,000 reports of human cases of Valley fever annually. However, Sykes thinks the actual number of cases may be at least 33-fold higher since many states don't require reporting.
The CDC considers Valley fever endemic in parts of six states, including Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, and Utah. Sykes told USA TODAY that their study found Valley fever in dogs in those states, but also in several more Western states including Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming and Colorado.
"We are also finding cases in states where valley fever is not considered endemic by the CDC," Sykes said. "Some of that could be due to people traveling with their dogs across state borders. We also know that these states have environmental and soil conditions suitable for the survival of the disease.
"We should be closely watching those states because there could be under-recognition of the fungal disease in humans, so many cases get missed or misdiagnosed," Sykes added.
Price for pets: The cost to own a dog or cat can be extensive. It's about to get more expensive.
The study also shows the spike in dog cases was correlated with "hot spots" for human Valley fever, Sykes said, confirming its accuracy.
"We still need to do more studies to predict the incidence and frequency of the disease in humans where we have no current information," Sykes said.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Yahoo
Myths VS Facts: What health officials want you to know about the MMR vaccine
SALT LAKE CITY () — With measles cases increasing in the U.S., including two recent brushes with the disease in Utah, health officials want to remind the public that the safest protection against it is the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Earlier this week, the Utah Department of Health and Human Services announced they are monitoring a potential measles exposure in southwestern Utah after an unvaccinated individual from out of state visited the area while infectious with the disease. Health officials monitoring potential measles exposure in southwestern Utah Additionally, health officials said a through the Salt Lake City International Airport in May. This incident was determined to be low risk, as the passenger was vaccinated. Although there are no recorded cases in Utah yet, with some in neighboring states, health officials want residents to know that there could be some soon and to be prepared. 'It is the time to go and check what your vaccine status is, what your kid's vaccine status is, and make sure everybody has the right vaccine, so you don't have to worry about this. There's a great way to prevent it, you can take it, it's a good safe, effective way to not have measles get into your family,' said Dr. Leisha Nolen, the state epidemiologist. Health officials report that measles is one of the most contagious diseases. Measles signs and symptoms generally appear about 10-14 days after exposure, with common symptoms including high fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, and white spots in the mouth known as Koplik's spots. In addition, a rash with small red spots may appear after 3-5 days. The CDC reports that measles was declared eliminated from the United States in 2000, which is described as an absence of the continuous spread of disease for more than 12 months. But, there have been more cases in recent years. Currently the CDC says there are 1,168 confirmed measles cases in the United States. There have been three confirmed deaths from measles in the U.S. in 2025. Passenger with measles travels through SLC airport, determined low risk for spread met with Dr. Andrew Pavia, professor of pediatric infectious diseases and chief of hospital epidemiology at Primary Children's Hospital, to learn more about the vaccine and its effectiveness, as well as break down some myths. 'We've seen an unprecedented amount of measles in the country this year, so we've just been waiting for it to arrive in Utah, ' he said. '…We've been preparing for it. Now, with this exposure in Saint George, it's likely that there will be more cases. Many people have never seen measles, even their parents may not have seen it. It's a pretty bad disease — and when we say childhood illness, we think of something like chickenpox, where kids are uncomfortable for two or three days, and that's it. Measles is miserable in its average form, but can be dangerous, or even deadly. That's why we really care about it, and that's why we really, really want everyone to help protect their children.' The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that the MMR vaccine is safe and effective, and that it protects you from measles, mumps, rubella, and other serious diseases. According to the CDC, almost everyone who has not had the MMR vaccine will get sick if they are exposed to those viruses. The says that numerous studies have been conducted over the year, confirming its safety and efficacy. Minimal risks, such as swelling in cheeks or neck and allergic reactions can occur, the AAP said, but the protecton it provides far outweighs the risks and more serious outcomes that can come from measles itself. Dr. Pavia said that the vaccine has low rates of potential side effects and protects you against measles for life. 'This vaccine has been extremely carefully studied. It has been studied in placebo-controlled trials, and every time it's been tweaked or improved slightly, the new version has been compared to the old one,' Dr. Pavia said. 'It's very, very safe by the standards of any medicine you want to look at. That's not to say there aren't some side effects. Kids, not uncommonly, can get a fever after the MMR vaccine. They can also get a rash 1 to 2 weeks out, or some joint aches. It's a little bit more common in adults who get it, but serious complications of this vaccine are extraordinarily rare and rarer than with most other vaccines.' One dose of the MMR vaccine is 93% effective against measles, while two doses are 97% effective, according to the CDC. The CDC says that although some vaccinated people may still get measles, mumps, or rubella if exposed to the viruses, their symptoms will generally be milder, and they will be less likely to spread the disease. The CDC said that the MMR vaccine has been thoroughly studied in the United States and other countries and no link between autism and the MMR vaccine has been found. Although the vaccine, like medicine, can have side effects, these are typically mild and go away on their own. 'There are no long-term consequences of the MMR vaccine and it's been incredibly well-studied because of the concerns people have raised,' Dr Pavia. said. 'There are over 20 studies looking at whether or not there's any connection to autism. That's a common thing that's brought up, and these studies done in many different countries have showed absolutely no link. With a serious disease and a very good vaccine, if you're going to pick one vaccine to get this summer, it should be the one.' Some may believe getting measles and developing natural immunity is safer than getting the vaccine, however, say otherwise, as natural infection comes with more risks. Dr. Pavia explained getting the disease from natural infection is more dangerous with serious cases leading to the hospital, death, or brain damage. 'If none of those things happen, you're going to be miserable, or your child's going to be miserable for four to eight days,' Dr. Pavia said. '… If I had a good vaccine to offer for rattlesnake bites, would you say it's better to get bitten by a rattlesnake and develop some immunity to the venom or to get a vaccine?' Both recent brushes with measles in Utah were related to travel, which we will be seeing more of this summer. Dr. Pavia said now is a good time to think about getting your kids vaccinated and protected. 'Utahns are going to be traveling with their kids this summer, going to places where there's even more measles. Of course, Utah's an important destination for people during the summer, so we can expect more importations, more people showing up in Utah with measles. It's really important that we and our kids have the best protection possible,' he said. Dr. Pavia also emphasized the importance of seeking out reputable resources to learn more and educate yourself on MMR vaccine information, such as speaking to your own family practitioner. 'I think it's really important for people to educate themselves. We say that a lot, but then you go to social media or talk to friends, and there's just so much misinformation out there. Educate yourself, but look for reliable sources. Go to the Utah State Department of Health. Look at the University of Utah or Intermountain websites. Go to Medscape. There are lots of good sources of information where you can learn more, but just be careful in what you consume,' he said. '…I hope you and your kids have a great summer, but please be safe and be healthy out there.' Musk floats 'The American Party' after Trump tiff Myths VS Facts: What health officials want you to know about the MMR vaccine Good4Utah Road Tour: Willard Bay State Park Lori Vallow Daybell back in court, charged with conspiracy to murder ex nephew-in-law Man charged with assault for allegedly attacking and strangling neighbor Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Yahoo
UCSD students protest Trump cuts to science research funding
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — For the second time this year, students and faculty at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) staged a protest outside Geisel Library, demanding the federal government reverse deep education funding cuts imposed by the Trump administration — cuts they say are threatening research, jobs and the future of scientific innovation. Dozens of protesters gathered on campus, holding signs and sharing personal stories about how the loss of federal research grants is impacting their work and well-being. Dozens possibly detained by federal officials amid immigration raids in Los Angeles 'This year has been filled with many moments of insecurity,' said Eleanor Ketterer-Sykes, a first-year Ph.D. student in the neuroscience program. 'UCSD is one of the best science schools in the country because of its renowned research labs, you have access to labs at the Salk Institute, Sanford and Scripps as well as the VA Hospital — but that future is in jeopardy.' The Trump administration has canceled hundreds of research grants in recent months, citing concerns over 'ideologically driven science.' The cuts have targeted studies ranging from HIV prevention to violence prevention in children. UCSD Chancellor Pradeep Khosla warned in an April letter that the university stands to lose between $75 million and $500 million annually as a result. 'As of May 30, there have been more than 150 federal grants terminated, resulting in a loss of $30 million,' said Lisa Eyler, a UCSD psychiatry professor. 'These cuts are already leading to layoffs among instructors, staff scientists, and support personnel like librarians.' 'No Kings Day' protests planned across California on June 14 The ripple effects could be felt beyond UCSD. Stanley Maloy, emeritus professor of microbiology at San Diego State University, said the cuts threaten the pipeline of future scientists and engineers. 'Reduced positions mean talented students are left behind,' Maloy said. 'As this innovation workforce dries up, our economy is going to suffer.' Eyler echoed those concerns, warning of a generational loss in scientific progress. 'There will be a gaping hole in the pipeline of future scientists, engineers and healthcare providers, which could result in the potential loss of an entire generation of great scientific thinkers,' she said. Thousands in San Diego protest cuts to federal education funds For Ketterer-Sykes, the issue is personal. She entered the neuroscience program hoping to make life-saving breakthroughs. 'So many people rely on scientific innovation — whether it be to find cures for diseases like tuberculosis or Alzheimer's disease,' she said. 'It really is vital to humanity.' While the exact financial toll remains uncertain, university leaders say the impact is already being felt — and may only get worse. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
The Hill
6 hours ago
- The Hill
Measles cases see biggest rise in over a month
The Big Story The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recorded 80 new measles cases this week, the biggest jump since April. © AP A total of 1,168 confirmed measles cases were reported in 34 states as of Thursday. The number of cases has quadrupled since 2024, when the country saw just 285 cases. At the current rate, the U.S. will likely soon surpass the 1,274 cases from 2019, the highest annual number since the disease was eliminated in 2000. The 2019 outbreak was driven largely by spread among under-vaccinated communities in New York City and the state. Measles was officially eliminated in 2000 due to a highly effective vaccination program, but vaccinations have waned, and the 2019 outbreak threatened that status. According to the CDC, vaccination coverage for measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) among kindergarteners is below the 95 percent target — and much lower in some communities. And it's decreasing. During the 2023 to 2024 school year, just under 93 percent of kindergartners received the MMR vaccine. Among the nationally confirmed cases, the CDC said 95 percent are among people who are unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown. An outbreak has been spreading in West Texas, but has slowed in recent weeks. There have been 742 cases confirmed in the state since late January, but no new cases since Tuesday. Many of the latest cases seem to be linked to travel, as the CDC reported 17 separate outbreaks. Of cases reported so far, 89 percent are linked to outbreaks, the agency said. There have been three confirmed deaths this year. Two of them were unvaccinated children in Texas who had no known underlying conditions. A third death was reported in New Mexico in an unvaccinated adult who tested positive after dying. Measles is one of the most contagious diseases known to humans. Just one infected patient can spread measles to up to 9 out of 10 susceptible close contacts, according to the CDC. Welcome to The Hill's Health Care newsletter, we're Nathaniel Weixel, Joseph Choi and Alejandra O'Connell-Domenech — every week we follow the latest moves on how Washington impacts your health. Did someone forward you this newsletter? Subscribe here. Essential Reads How policy will be impacting the health care sector this week and beyond: Kash Patel claims 'breakthrough' in Fauci COVID origins probe FBI Director Kash Patel said in an interview this week that his agency made a 'breakthrough' as it continues to investigate former National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) Director Dr. Anthony Fauci, a key player in the U.S.'s early response to the COVID-19 pandemic. At the same time, Patel cautioned Fauci's critics from expecting too much. 'We just had a great breakthrough … Warren, Wyden warn Trump policies could 'decimate retirees' savings' Democratic Sens. Elizabeth Warren (Mass.) and Ron Wyden (Ore.) are pressing the Trump administration over the impact the president's sweeping trade policies will have on the finances of retirees and people close to retirement. 'The economic chaos triggered by President Trump's disastrous tariff policy has the potential to decimate retirees' savings,' they wrote in a letter to the White House on Friday that … Nearly 100 House Democrats urge RFK Jr. to restore millions in family planning grants Nearly 100 House Democrats are calling on Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to restore tens of millions of dollars in federal family planning grants to more than a dozen organizations that have been frozen for more than two months. In a letter to Kennedy sent Friday and seen first by The Hill, 95 lawmakers said the organizations that had their Title X funding frozen on March 31 — including … In Other News Branch out with a different read from The Hill: Agencies they can't enforce anti-trans bias policies against Catholic groups: Judge BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Two federal agencies cannot punish Catholic employers and health care providers if they refuse for religious reasons to provide gender-affirming care to transgender patients or won't provide health insurance coverage for such care to their workers, a federal judge ruled Thursday. The ruling from U.S. District … Around the Nation Local and state headlines on health care: What We're Reading Health news we've flagged from other outlets: What Others are Reading Most read stories on The Hill right now: Hegseth could be 'on the hook' for hundreds of millions on Qatari jet, says Raskin The top Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee has warned Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth that he could be 'on the hook' for hundreds of millions … Read more Supreme Court hands DOGE big wins in Social Security, records cases The Supreme Court on Friday handed the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) two major victories in its expanding legal battle over drastic efforts … Read more What People Think Opinions related to health submitted to The Hill: You're all caught up. See you next week! Like this newsletter? Take a moment to view our other topical products here 📩 Thank you for signing up! Subscribe to more newsletters here
