A deadly fungal infection, Candida auris, has been spreading across the United States, and Washington state has recently reported an outbreak with four confirmed cases. This article will provide an in-depth look at the infection, its symptoms, ways to prevent it, and why it is essential to take necessary precautions.
What is Candida auris?
Candida auris is a type of fungus that can cause severe infections in humans. Although it was first discovered in Japan in 2009, it has been increasingly found in the United States since 2013. The fungus can spread quickly in hospitals and healthcare facilities, making it challenging to control.
Why is Candida auris Dangerous?
Candida auris is a cause for concern because it can be resistant to many antifungal medications, making it challenging to treat. In some cases, it can be resistant to all three primary categories of antifungal medications, making it a significant threat to public health.
The fungus can spread throughout the body without causing symptoms, a condition known as colonization. However, invasive infections can develop in 5 to 10% of people who have been colonized with C. auris. These infections can be deadly, with over 45% of patients dying within the first 30 days of developing symptoms.
Who is at Risk?
Patients in long-term acute care facilities are at the highest risk of contracting Candida auris. These patients often have endotracheal tubes or central venous catheters and are generally quite sick. Although healthy individuals seldom contract the infection, severe Candida auris infections in the United States have a 30% to 60% fatality rate.
How Does Candida auris Spread?
Candida auris can spread through close contact with a carrier of the fungus or by touching surfaces or objects that have been contaminated with it. The fungus can survive on surfaces for at least two weeks, making it challenging to control.
Preventing Candida auris:
Preventing the spread of Candida auris requires strict adherence to infection control practices. Healthcare facilities must ensure that all staff members follow proper hand hygiene, use personal protective equipment, and clean and disinfect surfaces regularly.
Patients who are colonized or infected with Candida auris should be isolated from other patients to prevent the spread of the fungus. Healthcare facilities should also implement active surveillance testing to identify and isolate patients who are colonized with Candida auris.
Candida auris infections are treated with antifungal drugs. Doctors typically recommend a class of drugs known as echinocandins. However, some infections caused by Candida auris are immune to all antifungal drugs, including echinocandins. In such cases, doctors prescribe high dosages of several antifungal drugs.
It is essential to note that this particular fungal infection cannot be treated at home or with “natural” methods. Medical care is always required, and patients must remain in isolation during treatment.
Symptoms of Candida auris:
Candida auris can cause various symptoms, depending on the severity of the infection. In some cases, the fungus can spread throughout the body without causing any symptoms, a condition known as colonization. However, invasive infections can cause a range of symptoms, including:
* Fever
* Chills
* Fatigue
* Skin rash or redness
* Swelling or pain at the site of infection
* Confusion or altered mental status (in severe cases)
What to Do if You Suspect Candida auris:
If you suspect that you or a loved one has a Candida auris infection, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Healthcare providers can perform tests to determine if the infection is present and recommend appropriate treatment.
It is also crucial to inform healthcare providers if you have recently been in a healthcare facility, as this can increase your risk of contracting Candida auris.
Conclusion:
The recent outbreak of Candida auris in Washington state highlights the importance of taking necessary precautions to prevent the spread of this deadly fungus. Healthcare facilities must adhere to strict infection control practices, and individuals must seek medical attention if they suspect an infection.
Although Candida auris can be resistant to many antifungal medications, early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes. By working together, we can help prevent the spread of this dangerous fungal infection.
