Emerging Fungus Candida auris Poses Serious Global Health Threat, CDC Warns
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning about an emerging fungus called Candida auris (C. auris), which they have deemed a serious global health threat. This fungus has been causing severe illness and death in hospitalized patients, with reported cases in 29 states, including Florida.
According to the CDC, the highest number of cases has been reported in Nevada, with 384 cases, followed by California with 359 cases, and Florida with 349 cases. C. auris is capable of entering the bloodstream and causing serious invasive infections, proving to be difficult to treat as it often does not respond to commonly used antifungal drugs.
Individuals who have recently stayed in nursing homes and have various lines and tubes going into their bodies, such as breathing tubes, feeding tubes, and central venous catheters, are at the highest risk for C. auris infection. Invasive infections with any Candida species, including C. auris, can be deadly, with more than 30% of patients with C. auris infections dying based on limited information.
Healthcare settings are believed to be the primary source of the fungus’s spread. It can be transmitted through contact with contaminated surfaces or equipment, as well as person-to-person transmission. In light of this, the CDC is urging healthcare facilities to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the fungus.
C. auris was first identified in 2009 in Japan and has since been reported in more than 30 countries, including the United States. The CDC provides more information about C. auris on its website, including symptoms, prevention measures, and treatment options.
In order to protect the public’s health, it is vital that healthcare professionals and facilities remain aware of the threat posed by Candida auris. Through monitoring, awareness, and effective prevention measures, it is hoped that the spread of this dangerous fungus can be slowed or even halted, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of patients worldwide.
“Zombie enthusiast. Subtly charming travel practitioner. Webaholic. Internet expert.”