UC Merced experts to speak on Valley fever

The second Valley Fever Community Awareness Day will be conducted by the UC Merced Health Science Research Institute on Friday in Fresno.

Valley fever is not contagious and is contracted by inhaling fungal spores. The fungal parasite is found commonly in dry, low-rainfall areas, such as the San Joaquin Valley, experts have said.

The symptoms of the illness are described as flulike headaches, cough, muscle pain and rashes. About 60 percent of people infected show no symptoms, making it hard to detect the illness, resulting in misdiagnoses. In some cases the individuals fight the illness off themselves.

Dr. Erin Gaab, a researcher for the UC Merced Health Science Research Institute, said the event’s aim is to bring awareness to the community in knowing the kind of treatment to get and when to get tested for the illness. The information will be valuable to individuals and be a preventive source that will familiarize the public with demographics and symptoms.

“It is an awareness day. The goal of the event is to inform people of Valley fever,” Gaab said.

There will be carnival-style games and free food catered by Ginza Asian Bistro. Gaab and other experts will be at the event to answer questions and give out information.

“They’re going to make it fun,” she said.

Last year, with over 200 people attending, Valley Fever Awareness Day placed as one of the finalists for the Program of the Year Award.

“Valley fever can not be treated unless you know you have it,” Gaab said.

This story was originally published April 5, 2016 at 6:45 PM with the headline "UC Merced experts to speak on Valley fever."