Dust entry
Dust from disturbed soil containing Coccidioides fungal spores in areas where Valley Fever is endemic.
The form describes what is suspended in air at the point of exposure. A material can produce more than one form, such as dust during handling and fume during heating.
CDC/NIOSH states that workers in endemic areas exposed to dust from disturbed soil have increased risk for Valley Fever, an infection caused by inhaling Coccidioides spores.
Workers in endemic areas exposed to dust from disturbed soil are at a higher risk for Valley Fever.
CDC/NIOSH explains that Valley Fever is caused by breathing Coccidioides spores and recommends stopping work in dust storms or high winds, wetting soil during earthwork, using enclosed HEPA-filtered cabs, and staying upwind to reduce exposure.
Coccidioidomycosis, or Valley Fever, is an infectious disease caused by breathing spores from Coccidioides fungi. Steps for minimizing exposures include: stop work in dust storms or high winds; continuously wet soil while digging or moving earth; and stay upwind of digging when possible.