[lauyeung]

I am deciding between AZ and NV for retirement. One thing that really concern me is Valley Fever in AZ that may harm my dog. Velley Fever is found in deserts, especially common in the south western corner of US. Does anyone have experience or have heard of Valley Fever in Las Vegas?

[lvkewlkid]

I've never even heard of Valley Fever. What is it?

[yellowsnow]

This is relatively new emerging disease caused by a fungus. A fungus with a long name. Looks like you or your dog could theoretically contract this fungus anywhere in the southwest. According to the maps I saw, there appears to be a higher risk in Arizona than Nevada.

Yes, it's real....however, I don't know anyone who has been infected. Haven't even heard of anyone being infected. They estimate there are 150K cases a year.

It doesn't sound like this is something so significant that it would determine where you want to live. After all there is ALWAYS a fungus among us! Most infected people/animals will recover.

[harley22]

Personally I would NOT, absolutely NOT move to Arizona. If you google valley fever you will hear the horror stories and while not particularly easy to catch, the chances go way up when you are over 65...or out in the desert often like inmates. According to what I have read about 3 (though this figure is climbing) percent become infected. The majority by far come from Arizona, second would be California. I do not know about Nevada, but because it is in the SW, it may become a concern, if it is not already.

Not only people, but according to what I read dogs become more easily infected. Perhaps this is because their noses are so close to the ground? I seriously considered moving to Arizona but decided against it, mostly because of my dogs. I am however looking at moving to Austin, TX, as I have found no human nor canine cases. Though the southern and western portions could become possibly an area for concern. Though normally it is dust and TX is wetter than AZ and even NM.

I do agree that there are dangers everywhere, but when it comes to my dogs or my children I would like to have the heads up on possible infections.

Good luck to you

[jksouthbay88]

Coccidioidomycosis:that's the long word and complicated for "Valley Fever"