Candida Auris: The Mysterious Fungal Infection Spreading Across Hospitals
Candida Auris: The Mysterious Fungal Infection Spreading Across Hospitals
Candida Auris is a type of yeast that was first discovered in 2009 in Japan. Since then, it has spread to more than 30 countries worldwide, including the United States.
The fungus is particularly dangerous because it is resistant to multiple antifungal medications, making it difficult to treat.
According to the CDC, Candida Auris can cause bloodstream infections, wound infections, and ear infections. It can also infect the respiratory system and urinary tract.
Symptoms of Candida Auris can include fever, chills, and a rapid heartbeat. In some cases, it can also cause skin infections and abscesses.
The infection is most commonly spread in hospitals and other healthcare settings, where it can easily be passed from person to person.
The CDC recommends that healthcare facilities take steps to prevent the spread of Candida Auris, such as isolating patients with the infection and using proper infection control measures.
Despite these efforts, the fungus continues to spread across the United States, with recent outbreaks reported in several states, including New York, Texas, and California.
Experts believe that one reason Candida Auris is spreading so quickly is that it can survive on surfaces for weeks at a time, making it difficult to eradicate.
Another challenge is that the infection can be difficult to detect, as it often does not respond to standard laboratory tests.
There is currently no vaccine or cure for Candida Auris, which has a mortality rate of up to 60% in some cases.
In light of the ongoing threat posed by Candida Auris, it is more important than ever for healthcare facilities to take steps to prevent its spread and for individuals to practice good hygiene to protect themselves from infection.