A potentially deadly fungus is expanding in US hospitals
New York City and the state of New Jersey are currently facing a critical expansion of Candida auris, a persistent and multi-drug resistant fungus that has become a priority for public health authorities in the United States. Clarín During the first half of 2024, this region concentrated 20% of the cases detected [...]
TL;DR
- New York City and New Jersey are experiencing a critical expansion of Candida auris.
- In the first half of 2024, this region accounted for 20% of US cases, with 623 clinical cases and 849 asymptomatic carriers.
- Candida auris, identified in the US since 2016, is a priority for public health authorities.
- The CDC has classified it as an 'urgent threat' due to its multi-drug resistance and high mortality rate.
- Cases are increasing, particularly those resistant to echinocandins, the primary treatment for Candida infections.
- The spread is driven by the indiscriminate use of antibiotics, which promotes genetic defenses in microorganisms in hospital settings.
- Most cases occur in healthcare facilities, especially in long-term patients or those on mechanical ventilators.