A drug-resistant and often fatal fungus is spreading at an alarming rate across US healthcare facilities.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that at least 7,000 infections have been reported so far in 27 states.
The pathogen, Candida auris, is classified by the CDC as an “urgent threat” because of its resistance to most antifungal drugs and its high mortality rate in vulnerable patients.
First identified in the United States in 2016, the virus preys on individuals in hospitals and nursing homes and is spread through contaminated surfaces, catheters and medical equipment.
This year’s data is estimated to cross 2024’s record of over 7,500 infections.
The fungus poses little threat to healthy individuals, but can be fatal to those with weakened immune systems.
Previous data indicated that about 30%-60% of infected patients died, although many had other serious illnesses.
Scientists also point to a disturbing link with climate change. As global temperatures rise, fungi such as C. auris can adapt to survive warmer temperatures. Fungi are said to break through the “temperature barrier” that once protected humans.
Health officials note strict infection control in clinical settings as the superbug continues to challenge the nation’s public health defenses.
