Valley Fever poses serious health risks, particularly for individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms often mimic the flu or pneumonia but can persist for weeks or months. In severe cases, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, causing life-threatening complications such as meningitis. The disease's expansion into new regions increases the likelihood of misdiagnosis, as many healthcare providers outside the Southwest are unfamiliar with it. Tourism also contributes to its spread, as visitors to endemic areas may inhale spores and develop symptoms later in their home states.