The CDC warns the public about a fungus outbreak

The CDC has issued a warning about an outbreak of the deadly fungus Candida auris. Since its discovery in 2009, C. auris has spread to more than 25 countries and infected people around the world. It can cause severe infections that are difficult to diagnose and treat, and it is often resistant to antifungal medicines. In this article, we will discuss what you need to know about C. auris, its symptoms, treatment options, and more.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have warned of a drug-resistant strain of fungus, Candida auris, that is currently spreading throughout US healthcare facilities. This yeast can be dangerous to those with weakened immune systems if it enters the bloodstream and spreads. According to the CDC, 30% - 60% of people who become infected with C. auris will die from their infection. This is cause for alarm and warrants swift action to mitigate potential risk.

Patients staying in hospitals for extended periods, those with a central venous catheter or other tubes entering their body and those exposed to antibiotics or antifungal medications are most likely to contract Candida auris. This potentially deadly infection can spread between people and surface contamination. Moreover, the fungus is resistant to standard antifungal drugs, leaving few treatment options available. Identifying the fungus often requires sophisticated laboratory equipment, further complicating management.

Candida auris presents a challenging issue due to its particular resistance to many common antifungal drugs. This fungus was first spotted in Japan in 2009 and has since spread to 30 different countries worldwide, including the United States. The number of infections increased drastically—by 95%—from 2020 to 2021 when the world's focus shifted heavily towards containing Covid-19. At present, more than half of American states have already identified cases of Candida auris; Mississippi is of particular concern following 12 presentations since November and four potential fatalities connected with this fungal infection.As Tammy Yates, spokesperson for the State Department of Health noted.

Dr. Waleed Javaid, an epidemiologist, and director of infection prevention and control at Mount Sinai Downtown in New York, expressed concern to NBC regarding the fungus, characterizing it as "worrisome"
Officials say  prevention starts with cleaning everything with   UV light.”and bleach.

By Anita Johnson-Brown

More News from Los Angeles
I'm interested
I disagree with this
This is unverified
Spam
Offensive