Valley Fever: Expanding Nurse Practitioner Awareness and Improving Clinical Recognition

<h2>Abstract</h2> Coccidioidomycosis (Valley fever) is a growing public health threat with expanding geographic reach. As frontline primary care providers, nurse practitioners (NPs) are pivotal in combating diagnostic delays and unnecessary antibiotic use associated with this fungal infection. This review provides NPs with evidence-based strategies to improve recognition and management. Key actions include taking a standardized exposure history, maintaining a low threshold for serologic testing, managing uncomplicated cases, and establishing clear referral pathways. Enhanced NP competence in these areas is essential to improve patient outcomes and reduce health care costs.