The Rise of a Deadly Fungal Infection
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have reported that a deadly fungal infection, Candida auris, is spreading rapidly at an alarming rate. The infection was first reported in the United States in 2016, but the CDC’s data shows that cases have risen rapidly from 2020 to 2021. One in three patients with invasive infections die, and the exact role of Candida auris in vulnerable patients is difficult to assess.
The infection is particularly dangerous because it is hard to treat. The CDC has warned that it is “a serious global health threat.” It is resistant to many antifungal drugs, making it difficult to treat. The fungus can cause serious and sometimes deadly infections in the blood, heart, and brain. It can also cause infections on the skin and in the ears.
The CDC has urged health care providers to be aware of the infection and to take steps to prevent its spread. This includes proper cleaning and disinfection practices, as well as timely diagnosis and treatment of infections. Health care providers should also report any cases of Candida auris to their local health department.
The CDC is also conducting research to better understand the infection and to develop better treatments. In the meantime, health care providers should remain vigilant and take steps to reduce the risk of spread of this dangerous infection.