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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning about the rapid spread of Candida auris, a deadly fungal infection that is difficult to treat and poses a significant threat to those with weakened immune systems or those using medical devices such as catheters or ventilators.
According to a recent CDC report, the number of cases in the US has nearly doubled from 756 to 1,471 in 2021, with the majority of cases resistant to anti-fungal treatment. Invasive infections caused by Candida auris are fatal in one out of three patients.
The rise in cases is attributed to poor infection prevention in healthcare facilities and enhanced screening efforts, and may have been worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic. The strain on healthcare and public health systems during the pandemic may have contributed to the increase in cases.
The CDC emphasizes the need for continued surveillance, expanded lab capacity, quicker diagnostic tests, and adherence to proven infection prevention and control to address the rising number of cases.
Candida auris is particularly dangerous for vulnerable patients in hospitals and elderly care homes. The infection can spread through contact with affected patients or contaminated surfaces or equipment.
Other countries have also reported an increase in cases, and the World Health Organization has recognized Candida auris as a “fungal priority pathogen.” Dr. Paul Byers, Mississippi’s lead epidemiologist, identified a long-term acute-care facility as the center of the Candida auris outbreak in the state. He said, “Unfortunately, multi-drug resistant organisms such as C. auris have become more prevalent among our highest risk individuals, such as residents in long-term care facilities.”
The CDC’s warning about Candida auris highlights the need for healthcare facilities to improve their infection prevention measures and for individuals to take precautions to protect themselves and others from the spread of the fungus.
Candida auris is a deadly fungal infection that is difficult to treat and poses a significant threat to vulnerable patients. The rise in cases is attributed to poor infection prevention in healthcare facilities and enhanced screening efforts, and may have been worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The CDC emphasizes the need for continued surveillance and adherence to proven infection prevention and control to address the rising number of cases. Other countries have also reported an increase in cases, and the World Health Organization has recognized Candida auris as a “fungal priority pathogen.”
