Deadly fungus spreading across the US leaves agencies puzzled

Candida auris, a strange and dangerous fungal infection, is rapidly spreading its tentacles across the United States, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which is tracking the fungus. The discovery follows the World Health Organization’s designation of C auris as one of 19 fungal priority infections last year.

The multidrug-resistant yeast was discovered 15 years ago in Japan. According to the Wall Street Journal, it has infected as many as 2,377 individuals in the US by 2022. According to new CDC research published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, health centers across the country reported a 95% rise in cases between 2019 and 2021. In comparison, the fungus only affected 53 people in the US in 2016.

Furthermore, 28 states and the District of Columbia have confirmed reporting the cases, indicating that current safety measures are not adequately combating the fungus.

Both the WHO and the CDC have identified the fungus as a major concern to public health

Both the WHO and the CDC have identified the fungus as a significant concern to public health, citing its mortality rate of up to 60%. Individuals who are elderly or have weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable after contracting the fungus.

It produces bleeding wounds and ear infections and has been discovered in urine and respiratory samples, but it is unclear whether the fungus affects the lung or bladder. This yeast not only causes major sickness in people, but it is also difficult to recognize without the necessary tests.

“Specialised laboratory methods are needed to accurately identify C. auris. Conventional laboratory techniques could lead to misidentification and inappropriate management, making it difficult to control the spread of C. auris in healthcare settings,” said CDC in a circular.

According to a 2022 study, the fungus has spread to more than 30 nations since its discovery in 2009.

“The reported interregional spread as well as regional endemicity in one country show that C. auris is in the process of establishing itself as a healthcare-associated pathogen in the EU/EEA, similar to other countries such as the United States,” read the report.