KGUN chief meteorologist Erin Christiansen is back on the air after an extended bout of Valley Fever forced her to take a leave of absence from the station.

Christiansen was welcomed back on Monday evening’s newscasts by co-anchors Jennifer Waddell and Guy Atchley, who introduced Christiansen as someone who has “had a rough time of her own” lately.

“Rough is kind of an understatement!” Christiansen laughed. “I tell you what, it feels so good to be back.”

Christiansen will work on a partial schedule for now, but is expected to make a full recovery, according to KGUN.

KGUN chief meteorologist Erin Christiansen has been off the air this week due to an illness that doctors have now diagnosed as Valley Fever.

Christiansen originally thought she had a case of bronchitis but she’s actually suffering from something more serious, KGUN reports.  Valley Fever, or Coccidioidomycosis, is a fungal infection of the lungs that is endemic in arid parts of the country, especially Arizona.

KGUN expects Christiansen, who has been with the Tucson ABC-affiliate since 2006, to miss work for at least another week as she undergoes treatment.  She currently appears on the station’s 5, 6, and 10 p.m. weekday newscasts.