Dust Mitigation & Safety

Understanding Valley Fever

Valley Fever Overview:
Valley Fever (coccidioidomycosis) is a respiratory illness caused by inhaling fungal spores found in the soil of the Southwest United States including California. Symptoms often mimic respiratory infections, such as fever, cough, chest pain, and fatigue, and can sometimes be severe. It is not contagious and is primarily contracted through airborne spores. 

Reported Cases at Lightning in a Bottle:
Although there were a small number of reported cases of Valley Fever by LIB attendees in 2024, they represent less than 1% of all attendees. 

Measures LIB is taking to mitigate exposure:

While no single method can completely eliminate exposure to Valley Fever, we are working with local authorities and experts in the field to improve the environment by doing the following:

  • We will lay down additional wood chips over heavy traffic areas to suppress dust.

  • We will increase the frequency of the water trucks we use to keep dust in place.

  • We will add artificial turf to dance areas in front of stages where dust is an issue.

  • We will cut down the use of motorized vehicles by staff around the site.

  • We will continue to investigate and implement additional mitigation techniques used both by other large events in the region and suggested to us by local authorities.

  • We encourage you to use any other individual techniques for your personal safety and comfort while you enjoy an amazing weekend at LIB!

For more information on Valley Fever:

Explore the California Department of Public Health's Valley Fever Resources