The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a threefold increase in cases of a deadly fungus in recent years.
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Candida auris (C. auris) Identification:
It was first identified in Japan in 2009 and has since been reported in many countries worldwide.
Candida auris in US
The CDC has expressed concern about the rise in cases of this deadly fungus Candida auris and is closely monitoring the situation.
Since its first identified in the U.S. in 2016, Candida auris cases have been steadily increasing. Clinical cases rose from 476 in 2019 to 756 in 2020, an increase of 59%, and then sharply surged to 1,471 in 2021, a further increase of 95%. Concurrently, colonization screening of cases also increased, with 1,310 cases in 2020, a 21% rise from 2019, and a significant 209% increase to 4,041 cases in 2021, according to a study by CDC researchers published in the Annals of Internal Medicine. From 2019 to 2021, a total of 3,270 clinical cases and 7,413 screening cases of Candida auris were reported in 17 states.
What is Candida auris?
Candida auris is a type of yeast or fungus that can cause serious infections, particularly in people with weakened immune systems. One of the unique characteristics of Candida auris is its ability to survive on surfaces in healthcare environments, which makes it a challenging infection to control and prevent. In addition, it is often resistant to multiple antifungal medications, which can make it difficult to treat.
Due to its ability to spread rapidly and its resistance to treatment, superbug fungus candida auris is considered an emerging threat to public health. Preventive measures, such as infection control practices and the development of new antifungal medications, are critical for controlling the spread of this fungus.
In some patients, this yeast can enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body, and cause serious invasive infections. This yeast/virus does not respond to commonly used antifungal drugs, making infections difficult to treat. Patients who have been hospitalized in a healthcare facility a long time, have a central venous catheter, or other lines or tubes entering their body, or have previously received antibiotics or antifungal medications, appear to be at highest risk of infection with this yeast.
Candida auris cause
The exact cause of Candida auris infection is not fully understood, but it is believed to spread through person-to-person contact or through contact with contaminated surfaces or equipment in healthcare settings. The fungus is known to colonize the skin and mucous membranes, and it can easily spread through direct contact or contact with contaminated surfaces.
Candida auris is also known to thrive in moist environments, which can increase the risk of infection in individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those in hospitals, nursing homes, or long-term care facilities.
In addition, certain factors may increase the risk of developing a Candida auris infection, such as the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, which can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the body and allow the fungus to thrive. People with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, cancer, or HIV/AIDS may also be at increased risk of infection.
It’s important to note that not everyone who comes into contact with Candida auris will develop an infection. However, individuals who are at higher risk of infection should take precautions to reduce their risk, such as practicing good hand hygiene and avoiding unnecessary hospital visits.
Candida auris Symptoms
Candida auris infections can cause a variety of symptoms, including fever, chills, and sepsis. It can also lead to infections in various parts of the body, such as the bloodstream, ears, and skin.
Symptoms of Candida auris infections can vary depending on the location and severity of the infection. Some possible symptoms may include:
- Fever and chills
- Fatigue and weakness
- Skin infections such as itching, rash or redness
- Ear infections, including discharge or pain
- Bloodstream infections, which can lead to sepsis and organ failure
- Respiratory infections, such as coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain
- Urinary tract infections, which can cause pain or discomfort during urination
- Eye infections, which can cause redness, discharge, or vision changes
It’s important to note that not everyone with a Candida auris infection will experience symptoms, and some individuals may only have mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. However, if you have any concerns about your health or think you may have been exposed to Candida auris, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider.
Candida Auris Vaccine
Currently there is no vaccine for Candida auris, however, clinical attempts have been made, with experiments involving the NDV-3A vaccine.
Candida auris Treatment
Candida auris is a fungus that can cause serious infections, particularly in people with weakened immune systems or those who have had recent medical procedures. Treatment for Candida auris can be challenging because it is often resistant to multiple antifungal medications.
In general, the treatment of Candida auris infections involves the use of antifungal medications, such as echinocandins, polyenes, or azoles, depending on the susceptibility of the specific strain of the fungus. However, the choice of antifungal agent and the duration of treatment will depend on various factors, including the severity of the infection, the site of infection, and the patient’s underlying health conditions.
It is important to note that Candida auris infections can be difficult to treat and may require a combination of antifungal medications, or in some cases, surgery to remove infected tissue. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention promptly if you suspect you may have a Candida auris infection, and to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding treatment and follow-up care.
FAQ:
Question: When was Candida auris first reported?
Answer: First Identified in Japan in 2019.
Q: What are Candida auris symptoms?
Candida auris infections can cause a variety of symptoms, including fever, chills, and sepsis. It can also lead to infections in various parts of the body, such as the bloodstream, ears, and skin.
Q:Can Candida auris be cured?
Candida auris infections are treatable with a class of antifungal medications called echinocandins.
Q: How is Candida auris transmitted?
it is believed to be spread through person-to-person contact or through contact with contaminated surfaces or equipment in healthcare settings, such as nursing home and hospitals.
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