United States public health departments are expressing concern over the spread of a potentially deadly fungus after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported cases are on the rise.
According to the CDC, cases of Candida auris infection (aka C. auris) have increased of late.1 In fact, according to a very recent scientific publication, cases detected through screening tripled between 2020 and 2021, alone.2
C. auris is a type of yeast that spreads easily in healthcare facilities, including hospitals, nursing homes and long-term care facilities. While most healthy people are not at risk, vulnerable populations – including individuals with compromised immune systems - are more susceptible to developing these infections. Unfortunately, C. auris infections can cause severe illness because the organism is often resistant to standard antifungal medications.
Measures That Can Be Taken
Healthcare personnel should follow guidance by the CDC to prevent the spread of C. auris.3
According to the CDC, the following 3 hygiene practices should be followed:
- Practicing good hand hygiene. C. auris thrives on skin, so hygiene practices like washing with soap and water can help wash away germs.
- Following infection prevention and control measures, including the proper use of gowns and gloves.
- Performing effective environmental cleaning and disinfection practices, especially in patient rooms.
- For healthcare facility visitors, in addition to keeping hands clean, it’s important to follow any additional facility directions to prevent the spread of infection.
References:
1. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Tracking Candida auris. https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/candida-auris/tracking-c-auris.html. Accessed 02/02/2024.
2. Lyman M, Forsberg K, Sexton DJ, Chow NA, Lockhart SR, Jackson BR, Chiller T. Worsening Spread of Candida auris in the United States, 2019 to 2021. Ann Intern Med. 2023 Apr;176(4):489-495.
3. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Infection Prevention and Control for Candida auris. https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/candida-auris/c-auris-infection-control.html. Accessed 02/02/2024.