(Image source from: Valley fever proving pricey for the Arizonians)

People suffering from valley fever have something more to ache about - the skyrocketing prices of the commonly prescribed drug, fluconazole.

The price of this generic drug has spiraled up to 15 times higher than its former rate, posing as a worry for doctors and health agencies who opine that this steep price rise might pose as a difficulty for the uninsured patients who may face difficulty in shelling out such a hefty price. What's worse, is dogs and animals are more susceptible to this airborne fungal disease.

"A one-month supply of 100-milligram tablets of fluconazole rose from $5.50 in June to $52 in mid-July when a manufacturer raised its price," according to one pharmacy.

The sudden high rise in the price has sent patients and pet owners scouring for cheaper options. Some pet owners have given their pooches for adoption as they can't afford the treatment.

AW: Suchorita Dutta Choudhury