The representatives hope it will initiate a dialogue between Congress and the medical and scientific fields as well as host field hearings throughout the southwest later this year.
The task force will also work with community organizations to educate the public on the disease and seek new advancements in prevention and treatment with the ultimate goal of finding a cure for Valley Fever in the next decade.
Schweikert said he was “hopeful that this working group will bring awareness, reduce the risk of misdiagnoses, and bring about a cure within the decade.” “Many, if not all of us, know a family member, friend, neighbor, or co-worker that has been affected by Valley Fever and our fight against this disease continues. I am honored to join with Congressman Schweikert as we work together with our communities’ to raise awareness and eradicate this disease,” said Rep. McCarthy.
Joining Reps. Schweikert and McCarthy on the Valley Task force are:
Rep. Buck McKeon (R-CA)
Rep. Devin Nunes (R-CA)
Rep. Karen Bass (D-CA)
Rep. David Valadao (R-CA)
Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-CA)
Rep. Jim Costa (D-CA)
Rep. Paul Cook (R-CA)
Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R-CA)
Rep. Mike Conaway (R-TX)
Rep. Ron Barber (D-AZ)
Rep. Kevin Calvert (R-CA)