Our infectious disease specialists coordinate with other UC Davis Health experts to diagnose and treat fungal diseases. This team approach ensures you receive care for all your symptoms using the latest tests and therapies.

For decades, we have been at the forefront of infectious disease care and research. Our work has advanced the development of diagnostic testing for fungal illnesses and provided guidance for providers around the world. We use the expertise to improve the quality of life of people affected by these diseases.

Valley fever (coccidioidomycosis) is a fungal disease that affects people living in the Southwestern U.S. For more than 50 years, our Coccidioidomycosis Serology Laboratory has been helping people with suspected and confirmed cases of Valley fever. Our infectious diseases team includes world experts on Valley Fever.

Certain fungi can cause a skin infection on the foot called athlete’s foot. Athlete’s foot most often appears between your toes as an itchy rash.

Candida is a type of fungus that lives inside your body. But it can grow out of control in the mouth, throat, esophagus and vagina. When this overgrowth happens, you may develop candidiasis. Candidiasis is also known as thrush or a vaginal yeast infection. Rarely it can cause more serious infections.

Microscopic fungi can get into tiny cracks in your fingernails and toenails, causing infections. While fungal nail infections can be unsightly and sometimes painful, most are not dangerous.

Ringworm is an itchy skin rash caused by fungi — not worms. Ringworm can occur anywhere on your skin and often appears as a ring-shaped rash.

People most often get Valley fever when they breathe in spores from the Coccidioides fungus. This fungus lives in soil. We offer advanced expertise and care in our UC Davis Center for Valley Fever.

Living in or traveling to certain areas can increase your risk for a fungal infection. Protect yourself by avoiding exposure to harmful fungi around you. For example, avoid breathing in dust in areas where the Coccidioides fungus lives.

Mold may grow when your home is exposed to excess water, increasing the risk for allergies and asthma. If you experience flooding, quickly dry the affected areas thoroughly. Leave windows and doors open to air out and dry wet spaces.

While anyone can get a fungal infection, certain people are more at risk. For example, having a weakened immune system or an underlying health condition, such as asthma, cancer, transplant, or rheumatologic diseases, can increase your risk.

Wash your hands and body regularly, being careful to dry wet skin thoroughly. Change into clean, breathable clothing - especially underwear and socks - daily.

Avoid going barefoot in public places, especially showers, locker rooms and gyms.