Statement from Democrat Co-Lead Congressman Stanton:
"Valley Fever is a devastating disease- with no known cure- that's impacting more and more Arizona families each year" said Rep. Greg Stanton. "I'm proud to partner with Congressman Duarte, researchers and key federal partners as we work to develop a human Valley Fever vaccine and eradicate this threat to public health."
Statement from Congressman Duarte:
“Valley Fever negatively affects our families, workers, and communities, especially vulnerable populations," said Rep. John Duarte.“This bill will create a natural strategy for awareness, testing, and development to protect our Valley from this debilitating disease. I’m proud to work with my Democrat and Republican friends to improve our Valley’s health and well-being.”
Valley Fever Experts and Members of Congress issued the following statements:
“As the Chairman of the Valley Fever Task Force, I’ve long remained a fierce champion for finding the cure for this often-overlooked disease. My work on this issue has extended over a decade, collaborating with innovative and forward-thinking scientists and researchers who are just as committed to providing treatment as I” said Rep. David Schweikert. “Valley Fever cases have risen by nearly 761% over the past two decades, devastating our communities. We must remain committed to facilitating the development of a human vaccine to eradicate this terrible disease, which is why I am proud to support this crucial legislation that will work to combat the spread of Valley Fever, bolster our public health strategies, and most importantly, save lives. I’m grateful for colleagues like Rep. Duarte who remains determined on moving the needle in their communities, ultimately bringing awareness to the importance of combating Valley Fever.”
“Since 1988, Valley fever cases have skyrocketed in the Central Valley. This legislation is crucial to developing a much-needed vaccine and addressing our region’s significant health disparities, " said Rep. Jim Costa. “By prioritizing research and fostering collaboration across the federal government and private entities, we can combat this growing public health threat and protect our most vulnerable populations."
“Valley Fever has a huge impact on communities throughout the Central Valley and leaves thousands of people sick every year” said Rep. David Valadao. “I’m proud to support Congressman Duarte’s legislation to prioritize the development of a Valley Fever vaccine to combat the spread of this disease and save lives. As a member of the Valley Fever Task Force, I’ll continue working toward solutions to keep Central Valley families safe and healthy.”
“Valley Fever is a significant public health concern for Fresno County, particularly given our area’s high rate of cases” said Fresno County Department of Public Health Director David Luchini. “Vaccines are one of the most cost-effective interventions and will reduce future health costs related to Valley Fever illness.”
“We know that people who recover from Valley fever are immune from second infections for the rest of their lives. This makes the possibility of a preventative vaccine very likely to succeed” said University of Arizona Valley Fever Center for Excellence Director John Galgiani. The public health benefit from a Valley fever vaccine would be enormous for those living in the endemic regions [in America]. It could also protect visitors to those areas from around the country, making a Valley fever vaccine valuable to the entire nation and making federal interest in solving this problem a logical priority.”
Press Conference and Speakers:
- View the press conference: here.
- Press Conference Speakers:
- Fresno County Public Health Director David Luchini
- Madera County Public Health Director Sara Bosse
- Coalinga Mayor James Horn
- Coalinga Mayor Pro Tem and Valley Fever victim Jose Manny Ramirez
- Huron Mayor and Valley Fever victim Ray Leon
Background and Data on Valley Fever:
- Valley Fever cases haven early doubled in 2024, and every month has set new record highs for reported infections.
- From January to August 2024, California reported 7,000 cases.
- Wet winters followed by dry conditions create ideal conditions for the fungus, leading to peak season during the fall and winter months.
- Valley Fever is the largest endemic disease with no vaccine in the United States.
- Agricultural workers and outdoor workers—especially Hispanic and African American communities—are disproportionately affected by this fungal disease.
Key Provisions of the Bill:
- Federal Vaccine Coordinator Appointment: The Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) must appoint a Federal Vaccine Coordinator (FVC) to oversee vaccine development efforts across the Federal government and to coordinate with non-Federal stakeholders.
- National Strategy Development: The FVC is required to develop a national strategy with the goal to bring a human Valley Fever vaccine to market by 2034.
- Funding for Research and Manufacturing: The bill authorizes $50 million per year from FY25 to FY30 for vaccine research and manufacturing grants, along with $1 million for the national strategy.
- Valley Fever National Registry: The HHS Secretary must establish a National Valley Fever Registry – using only voluntarily provided, non-personally identifiable information – to increase awareness of Valley Fever and provide researchers with a one-stop portal to obtain data to further their efforts.
- To read the Valley Fever Awareness and Vaccine Development and Manufacturing Act of 2024 and for more information on this legislation, click here.
