Update-Exposure to dust events and hospitalizations in West Texas cities: The human health consequences of dust

Abstract

in dust-associated diseases, more consistent monitoring of dust levels should be implemented across the western USA, not just in the major cities where detailed measurements are now available. Our research team is currently investigating the health effects of dust in other West Texas cities, including Amarillo and Midland, and evaluating the potential health effects of thunderstorms, which have been shown to impact other cities in the USA and across the globe. We are also determining the incidence of coccidioido-mycosis (Valley fever), caused by the soil-dwelling fungus Coccidioides and potentially associated with dust and wind in West Texas. We actively welcome collaborations with other researchers and students.