Area's First Cocci Clinic for Valley Fever Patients
Opens at Mayo Clinic

Friday, November 12, 2004

For Immediate Release — November 12, 2004

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale has opened the Valley's first multi-disciplinary clinic to treat coccidioidomycosis (cocci), also known as Valley Fever. The Cocci Clinic provides patients coordinated treatment from a staff including specialists in infectious diseases, pulmonary medicine, dermatology and cardiothoracic surgery.

Cocci is prevalent in the Phoenix and Tucson areas of Arizona, and can affect anyone who lives, visits, or travels through these areas. Approximately 30-40 percent of people infected with cocci exhibit symptoms of cough, fever and headache that often begin within three weeks after inhaling the coccidioidal spores. Many affected people (approximately 60-70 percent), however, have no symptoms or very mild symptoms and do not require medical evaluation.

"The incidence of cocci in Arizona has increased substantially over the last several years, affecting all age groups," says Janis Blair, M.D, chair, Division of Infectious Diseases, at Mayo Clinic. "Hospitalizations have also increased, indicating an increase in the numbers of persons with severe disease. Often, more than one of the body's systems is affected. By taking a comprehensive approach to the disease, we hope to help patients manage Valley Fever more effectively."

The months of October and November tend to see peak reports of Valley Fever. Dr. Blair adds that Arizona residents with severe or prolonged flu-like symptoms should consider testing for Valley Fever. Patients seen at the Cocci Clinic receive a comprehensive medical work-up, including diagnosis, defining the extent of the infection, treatment and follow-up all in one location. Clinical trials may be available to test medications not otherwise available.

For more information on the Cocci Clinic at Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, call (480) 342-0115.

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