Indian techie dies in California after contracting rare fungal infection
India Today • • health
Key Points:
- Chiranjeevi Kolla, a 37-year-old Indian tech professional in California, died on May 5 after nearly a month in intensive care due to severe lung complications caused by Valley Fever, a rare fungal infection.
- Kolla initially experienced flu-like symptoms and a persistent cough before being diagnosed with Valley Fever, which overwhelmed his lungs and led to respiratory failure requiring ventilator support.
- Valley Fever is caused by inhaling spores of the Coccidioides fungus found in dry soil in parts of California and the southwestern U.S., and while most cases are mild, severe infections can be life-threatening, especially in vulnerable individuals.
- Kolla was the primary earner for his family, and a GoFundMe fundraiser has been established to support his wife and young son with medical bills, funeral expenses, daily living costs, and future education.
- Described as a dedicated family man and respected professional in healthcare technology, Kolla’s family and friends remember him as soft-spoken and compassionate throughout his illness.
