Overview of Candida auris

Candida auris is a type of yeast that poses a significant health threat, particularly in healthcare environments such as hospitals and nursing homes. While considered relatively rare, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights its high mortality rate, with more than one-third of individuals infected succumbing to the illness. In 2023, cases increased by 64% compared to the previous year, according to data from UC Davis Health.

Understanding Symptoms and Infections

The symptoms of a C. auris infection can vary widely, depending on the location and severity of the infection. Common indicators include:

• Fever
• Chills

The CDC notes that there is no unique set of symptoms associated specifically with C. auris infections. Importantly, some individuals may harbor C. auris on their skin or in other body areas without displaying any symptoms of illness—a state referred to as colonization. This colonization can facilitate the spread of the yeast to surfaces and other patients.

Why Candida auris is Concerning

A major reason for the heightened concern surrounding C. auris is its resistance to antifungal treatments. The yeast has shown the capability to withstand commonly used medications designed to combat fungal infections. While echinocandins, a class of antifungal drugs, can often effectively treat C. auris, some strains have developed resistance to all known classes of these medications.

At-Risk Populations

Candida auris predominantly affects individuals with serious health issues or those who require complex medical interventions. Factors that increase the risk include:

• Use of breathing tubes
• Involvement with feeding tubes
• Presence of catheters, both vascular and urinary

Healthy individuals who do not require hospitalization typically do not fall into the high-risk category for C. auris infections. Routine screening of healthcare workers or family members is usually unnecessary, as most patients who contract C. auris are already facing significant health challenges.

Statistics and Impact

Candida auris was first identified in the United States in 2016, with 51 cases recorded. Since then, the number of reported cases has surged, with 4,513 cases documented in 2023—up from 2,928 in 2022. Annually, over 2.8 million cases of antimicrobial-resistant infections occur in the U.S., leading to more than 35,000 fatalities.