AI Generated Image
Cases of potentially deadly fungus detected in 23 states, CDC data shows. What to know
ABC7 Chicago • • general
Key Points:
- As of July 18, 2024, 3,130 cases of the potentially deadly fungus Candida auris have been reported across 23 states, with Texas, Michigan, and Illinois having the highest numbers.
- The CDC notes that while cases continue to rise annually, the rate of increase has slowed since 2022, and the current case count is similar to last year's figure at this time.
- Candida auris is a yeast that can cause severe infections, especially in immunocompromised patients and those in healthcare settings with invasive devices, and it can persist on surfaces, facilitating its spread.
- Many strains of C. auris show resistance to common antifungal medications, with over 95% resistant to fluconazole and some resistant to multiple drug classes, though most infections remain treatable with echinocandins.
- The estimated mortality rate for C. auris infections ranges from 30% to 60%, highlighting the serious risk it poses to vulnerable patient populations.
