The fungus that causes 'Valley Fever' is very common in the soil of the
Southwest US (and probably northern Mexico).  Most people who live in the
SW US are infected by it within a few years of coming here.  However, it
doesn't do much to them--most people never know they had it.  A small
number of people will develop symptoms similar to tuberculosis.  And a very
small number of those people will die--usually people who also have immune
disorders or other diseases.  However, every part of the world has its own
similar fungus.  Along the Mississippi, for example, is a fungus that is
spread to humans and animals by migrating birds, and it is similar in
effect.
 
Our vet, who has extensive ferret experience and has been practicing in
northern New Mexico for some years, does not believe Valley Fever is common
in ferrets.  Given the dry climate, frequent wind, and presence of the
fungus in the soil, you'd expect to see it here.  But it isn't even seen
much in people or animals who spend a lot of time out in the blowing dust
(where the fungus spores are).
 
In my opinion, healthy ferrets, just like healthy humans, dogs, etc., may
be infected by the fungus, but should not suffer serious effects.
Obviously, those with pre-existing illnesses would be more susceptible.  In
any case, unless ferrets spend a lot of time digging in the dirt or play on
floors that are very dusty, they are at a lower risk for Valley Fever than
a toddler playing in a sandbox.
 
If a fungus does defeat a body's immune system, it can be very difficult
to get rid of.  Most treatments take a long time and some are hard on the
body.
 
I think (but don't know) that these fungal lung infections aren't
transmitted from animal to animal directly, in general.  I think the fungus
has to spend some time as a spore in the dust or some other situation
before it is able to grow in a new host.  (Any mycologists out there are
invited to correct these assumptions!)
 
Jacqueline
[Posted in FML issue 2719]