Latest news with #LightninginaBottle
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Climate
- Yahoo
Valley fever cases are expected to spike in California. Here's how locals, hikers and tourists can avoid it
For the second year in a row, California is on track to have a record-breaking number of valley fever cases, which public health officials say are driven by longer, drier summers. There have been more than 4,000 cases of valley fever reported statewide from January to April, an increase of more than 3,000 cases compared with the same period in 2024 and 2,000 more cases than in 2023, according to the California Department of Public Health. Last year's recording breaking number of cases reached a total of 12,605; in 2023 there were more than 9,000 cases. Valley fever, or coccidioidomycosis, is a lung infection that people get when they breathe in spores of the fungus, coccidioides, that lives in dry soil, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Spores of the fungus that grow in the dry soil are released into the air when the soil is disturbed by wind, construction and other activities. The fungus is found in the Pacific Northwest and Southwest United States, parts of Mexico, Central America and South America. Last year in Kern County, the music festival Lightning in a Bottle became a hot spot for the disease after 19 people reported contracting valley fever, with several people experiencing severe symptoms, including pneumonia-like conditions, rashes, headaches and exhaustion. Valley fever cases commonly increase statewide in late summer and decline in the winter, however state public health officials say the onset of valley fever transmission is starting earlier and lasting longer. Read more: Pasadena resident tests positive for whooping cough after visiting children's museum UC Berkeley researchers say climate change is expected to lead to drier spring and fall seasons and heavier winter rains. The prolonged dry seasons can extend the periods of high-risk exposure to valley fever. Valley fever is often misdiagnosed because the symptoms (cough, fever and chest pains) are similar to other infectious diseases, which can make it difficult for health officials to accurately report the number of cases. The number of valley fever cases so far this year is trending toward a new record but public health officials say it's still too early in the year to determine whether this will be a record breaker. Here are some precautions to help locals, hikers and tourists in counties with high numbers of reported valley fever cases to avoid the disease this summer. Public health officials in Fresno County, which includes a section of the John Muir Trail, share the following cautionary tips for hikers: Stay on well-maintained trails and avoid activities that kick up dust such as digging or biking off-path. Consider wearing a properly fitted N95 mask when hiking in dusty or dry conditions. Avoid hiking during windy days or right after a disturbance that may increase dust in the air. Clean any skin wounds well with soap and water, especially if they have been exposed to soil or dust. For anyone who lives, works or travels in an area where valley fever fungus grows, the CDC recommends: Stay indoors when it's windy outside and the air is dusty. On windy days, keep windows and doors closed to prevent dust and possible spores from entering the home. When driving through a dusty area, keep car windows closed and use recirculating air, if possible. Before digging, wet down soil and dirt to prevent stirring up dust into the air. Consider wearing a properly fitted N95 mask if you must be in dusty air outdoors in these areas. Read more: Deadly, drug-resistant fungus CDC calls 'urgent threat' is spreading in hospitals Those who spend a lot of time outdoors and are exposed to dirt and dust in areas where valley fever is common are more likely to contract the disease, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. That includes construction workers, farmers, military workers and archaeologists. People who live and work near dry and dusty areas are also at risk of being exposed to valley fever. People who have an increased risk of contracting the disease include: Adults 60 years and older. Those who have diabetes or health conditions that weaken the immune system, which include cancer, HIV, autoimmune illnesses, those with an organ transplant or who are receiving chemotherapy or steroids. Pregnant women, especially those in the later stages of pregnancy. Children who are 5 years old and younger. Those who are of Black, Latino, Native American or Filipino decent, although experts say they don't have a clear answer on why these groups of people are more susceptible. The fungus infects the lungs and can cause respiratory symptoms that include: Cough Fever Chest pain Fatigue Difficulty breathing Muscle or joint pain Night sweats Weight loss Rash While Valley fever shares many of the same symptoms as other respiratory diseases, including COVID-19, it takes about one to three weeks for valley fever symptoms to develop, and the illness can last a month or more. Read more: SoCal officials unleash sterile mosquitoes in bid to curb disease — with promising results Some people with valley fever may experience only mild symptoms that get better in a few weeks so treatment won't be necessary, according to Los Angeles County public health officials. However, there are others who will have symptoms that last a month or longer and may need treatment depending on their doctor's consultation. In rare severe cases, the disease can spread from the lungs to other parts of the body. The disease is usually diagnosed with a blood test. If you test negative for COVID-19 and have respiratory symptoms that last more than a week, and live in or have recently traveled to an area where valley fever is more common, public health officials suggest you talk to a doctor. Because valley fever affects each person differently, treatment will be determined based on the severity of the disease. The disease is often treated with antifungal medications. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Los Angeles Times
5 days ago
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
Valley fever cases are expected to spike in California. Here's how locals, hikers and tourists can avoid it
For the second year in a row, California is on track to have a record-breaking number of valley fever cases, which public health officials say are driven by longer, drier summers. There have been more than 4,000 cases of valley fever reported statewide from January to April, an increase of more than 3,000 cases compared with the same period in 2024 and 2,000 more cases than in 2023, according to the California Department of Public Health. Last year's recording breaking number of cases reached a total of 12,605; in 2023 there were more than 9,000 cases. Valley fever, or coccidioidomycosis, is a lung infection that people get when they breathe in spores of the fungus, coccidioides, that lives in dry soil, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Spores of the fungus that grow in the dry soil are released into the air when the soil is disturbed by wind, construction and other activities. The fungus is found in the Pacific Northwest and Southwest United States, parts of Mexico, Central America and South America. Last year in Kern County, the music festival Lightning in a Bottle became a hot spot for the disease after 19 people reported contracting valley fever, with several people experiencing severe symptoms, including pneumonia-like conditions, rashes, headaches and exhaustion. Valley fever cases commonly increase statewide in late summer and decline in the winter, however state public health officials say the onset of valley fever transmission is starting earlier and lasting longer. UC Berkeley researchers say climate change is expected to lead to drier spring and fall seasons and heavier winter rains. The prolonged dry seasons can extend the periods of high-risk exposure to valley fever. Valley fever is often misdiagnosed because the symptoms (cough, fever and chest pains) are similar to other infectious diseases, which can make it difficult for health officials to accurately report the number of cases. The number of valley fever cases so far this year is trending toward a new record but public health officials say it's still too early in the year to determine whether this will be a record breaker. Here are some precautions to help locals, hikers and tourists in counties with high numbers of reported valley fever cases to avoid the disease this summer. Public health officials in Fresno County, which includes a section of the John Muir Trail, share the following cautionary tips for hikers: For anyone who lives, works or travels in an area where valley fever fungus grows, the CDC recommends: Those who spend a lot of time outdoors and are exposed to dirt and dust in areas where valley fever is common are more likely to contract the disease, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. That includes construction workers, farmers, military workers and archaeologists. People who live and work near dry and dusty areas are also at risk of being exposed to valley fever. People who have an increased risk of contracting the disease include: The fungus infects the lungs and can cause respiratory symptoms that include: While Valley fever shares many of the same symptoms as other respiratory diseases, including COVID-19, it takes about one to three weeks for valley fever symptoms to develop, and the illness can last a month or more. Some people with valley fever may experience only mild symptoms that get better in a few weeks so treatment won't be necessary, according to Los Angeles County public health officials. However, there are others who will have symptoms that last a month or longer and may need treatment depending on their doctor's consultation. In rare severe cases, the disease can spread from the lungs to other parts of the body. The disease is usually diagnosed with a blood test. If you test negative for COVID-19 and have respiratory symptoms that last more than a week, and live in or have recently traveled to an area where valley fever is more common, public health officials suggest you talk to a doctor. Because valley fever affects each person differently, treatment will be determined based on the severity of the disease. The disease is often treated with antifungal medications.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
As Tariff Turbulence Rattles Global Markets, Gap International Launches "Lightning in a Bottle" to Help Executives Deliver Absurdly Ambitious Results Amidst Uncertain Markets
PHILADELPHIA, May 29, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--With tariffs disrupting global supply chains and inflation squeezing margins, business leaders face mounting pressure to do more with less. In response, Gap International—a global performance consulting firm known for transforming how executives think and operate—has launched its boldest campaign to date: "Lightning in a Bottle." Designed for C-suite leaders navigating economic uncertainty, the campaign is a high-voltage call to break from conventional strategies and pursue what Gap International calls Absurdly Ambitious Results—outcomes that defy the odds and redefine what's possible. "We've seen firsthand what's possible when leaders align their teams around bold visions and build organizations wired for breakthrough performance. 'Lightning in a Bottle' is our call to those leaders ready to think differently and deliver unprecedented outcomes," said Pontish Yeramyan, CEO of Gap International. As tariffs, geopolitical instability, and labor shortages challenge global growth, Gap International's consulting approach is helping companies rewire their thinking and unlock performance breakthroughs—no matter the market conditions. According to Forrester, most companies face a 70% failure rate in major initiatives. Gap International attributes this high failure rate to a lack of attention regarding the people and mindsets involved in the change process. Their methodology focuses on unlocking untapped human potential as a key driver of sustained performance. Real world results include: Increasing manufacturing output by 40%—with no added production lines Boosting on-time delivery from 45% to 80% Growing operating profit from 4% to 25% over six years Generating 28% revenue growth in a single year The firm's proprietary methodology addresses urgent executive challenges like: Overcoming Resistance to Change: Equipping leaders to shift thinking and drive alignment Breaking Communication Silos: Establishing a shared language that drives clarity and action Conquering Innovation: Making transformation sustainable—not situational Executives are invited to learn more at About Gap International Gap International is a global performance consulting firm that has helped organizations deliver extraordinary results for over 40 years and has operated in 68 countries with a 90% client repeat rate. Gap International empowers companies to shift mindsets, align leadership, and spark enterprise-wide transformation to achieve results once thought impossible. View source version on Contacts FFI: Samantha Dawkins, Gap Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Business Wire
5 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
As Tariff Turbulence Rattles Global Markets, Gap International Launches 'Lightning in a Bottle' to Help Executives Deliver Absurdly Ambitious Results Amidst Uncertain Markets
PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--With tariffs disrupting global supply chains and inflation squeezing margins, business leaders face mounting pressure to do more with less. In response, Gap International—a global performance consulting firm known for transforming how executives think and operate—has launched its boldest campaign to date: 'Lightning in a Bottle.' As Tariff Turbulence Rattles Global Markets, Gap International Launches 'Lightning in a Bottle' to Help Executives Deliver Absurdly Ambitious Results Amidst Uncertain Markets Designed for C-suite leaders navigating economic uncertainty, the campaign is a high-voltage call to break from conventional strategies and pursue what Gap International calls Absurdly Ambitious Results —outcomes that defy the odds and redefine what's possible. 'We've seen firsthand what's possible when leaders align their teams around bold visions and build organizations wired for breakthrough performance. 'Lightning in a Bottle' is our call to those leaders ready to think differently and deliver unprecedented outcomes,' said Pontish Yeramyan, CEO of Gap International. As tariffs, geopolitical instability, and labor shortages challenge global growth, Gap International's consulting approach is helping companies rewire their thinking and unlock performance breakthroughs—no matter the market conditions. According to Forrester, most companies face a 70% failure rate in major initiatives. Gap International attributes this high failure rate to a lack of attention regarding the people and mindsets involved in the change process. Their methodology focuses on unlocking untapped human potential as a key driver of sustained performance. Real world results include: Increasing manufacturing output by 40%—with no added production lines Boosting on-time delivery from 45% to 80% Growing operating profit from 4% to 25% over six years Generating 28% revenue growth in a single year The firm's proprietary methodology addresses urgent executive challenges like: Overcoming Resistance to Change: Equipping leaders to shift thinking and drive alignment Breaking Communication Silos: Establishing a shared language that drives clarity and action Conquering Innovation: Making transformation sustainable—not situational Executives are invited to learn more at About Gap International Gap International is a global performance consulting firm that has helped organizations deliver extraordinary results for over 40 years and has operated in 68 countries with a 90% client repeat rate. Gap International empowers companies to shift mindsets, align leadership, and spark enterprise-wide transformation to achieve results once thought impossible.
Yahoo
25-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
California reports sharp rise in Valley fever cases for first three months of 2025
California is heading toward another record year for cases of Valley fever, the disease caused by fungal spores linked to cycles of drought and precipitation. There were 3,123 reported cases of Valley fever in the first three months of the year, according to state health officials — roughly double the 10-year average for the first-quarter time period. Cases ranged from a low of 801 in 2016 to 3,011 last year. Most people who are infected with the fungus won't experience symptoms, and their bodies will fight off the infection naturally. Those who do suffer symptoms however are often hard-pressed to recognize them, as they resemble the onset of COVID or the flu, further complicating efforts to address the disease. The disease is caused by inhaling spores of coccidioides, a fungal pathogen that thrives in the drier and dustier regions of the state. The fungus is released when the dry soil where it grows is disturbed. "We actually had sort of seen this coming, just based on the climate cycle of the last few years," said George R. Thompson, a professor of medicine at the UC Davis School of Medicine and a specialist in invasive fungal infections. Research has shown that patterns of drought and precipitation play important roles in the number of Valley fever cases in California, said Doua Ge Yang, a spokeswoman for the state's Department of Public Health. "When there are several years of drought in California, followed by a wet winter, and then a dry summer," there are increases in the Valley fever cases for the following two years. She said 2023 typified such a scenario, and as predicted, 2024 resulted in a record-high case count, with 12,637 cases recorded. "Valley fever is on the rise in California," she said. While the numbers for 2025 are so far higher than any previously recorded first quarter, Yang said health officials can't predict whether it will remain a record year. She also noted that all the numbers from 2024 and 2025 are considered preliminary — and therefore demographic issues such as age, sex and race cannot yet be reported. In addition to patterns of rain and drought, research shows that other factors can play a role in incidents of Valley fever — including soil disturbance, such as the kind accompanying construction activity, wild fires and even archaeological digs. Construction workers, firefighters and archaeologists working in the dry, arid regions of the state are at increased risk of getting the disease — especially as Californians move into these once less inhabited regions of the state. Last year, at least 19 people who attended Lightning in a Bottle, a five-day music and art festival held at Buena Vista lake in Kern County, succumbed to the disease — including several who reported severe disease, which included pneumonia-like symptoms, rashes, headaches and exhaustion. The festival's organizers will be holding the event again this year at the same location. According to the festival website, organizers will try to reduce dust by applying water to the ground to keep it in place, adding artificial turf in front of the stages for dancing, and reducing the number of motorized vehicles used by staff around the site, and placing additional wood chips over heavy traffic areas to suppress dust. Because most people clear the disease on their own, the true number of infected people is not known. However, if a person's immune system is unable to clear the disease, and it is left untreated, it can cause death or permanent disability. Treatment varies depending upon severity, but antifungal drugs, such as fluconazole (Diflucan) or itraconazole (Sporanox, Tolsura), are the most common medications. However, they come with serious side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hair loss, dry skin, dry mouth and chapped lips. While several Central and Southern California counties have seen recent increases in their case counts, Monterey's numbers have ballooned. In 2023, there were 22 cases reported during the first quarter in the Central California county; this year, the number is 217. County health officials said they began seeing a surge in November of last year, at which point they sent out a health advisory to local medical providers and clinics providing information about the disease and testing guidance. Monterey County spokeswoman Karen Smith said that many residents had experienced severe disease and delays in their treatment and diagnosis. She said rates were highest for people who live in the southern part of the county and in the largely agricultural Salinas Valley. She said the county encourages people to reduce their risk of getting the disease by avoiding breathing in dirt and dust. Thompson, the UC Davis doctor and researcher, said there has been anecdotal evidence that the disease may be increasing in severity, and there are concerns that it may also have acquired some immunity to the common antifungal medicines used to fight it. The theory is that the widespread use of antifungal chemicals on crops in areas where the fungus is endemic may be contributing to its resistance, but that research on the topic is only just getting underway, and answers so far are elusive. He said there's a statewide effort looking into these issues, that includes participation from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the state's public health department, UC Davis, UC San Francisco, and Cal State Fresno and Cal State Bakersfield. He said for years the disease had largely been sidelined in public health circles as attention and funding was targeted at other pathogens that had wider and more severe impacts. "I hate to disparage that, but I think with limited resources, public health agencies do have to really prioritize certain pathogens," he said. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
