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Deadly fungus rapidly spreading across the U.S.
FOX Weather • • health
Key Points:
- Candida auris, a deadly fungus first reported in the U.S. in 2016, has now spread to 27 states, with over 4,200 confirmed cases last year and more than 3,400 cases reported by July 2026.
- The fungus poses a serious threat in healthcare settings due to its resistance to common antifungal medications and its ability to spread easily through contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces.
- C. auris primarily affects people with weakened immune systems, long hospital stays, or medical devices, causing infections in wounds, urinary tract, ears, and potentially leading to life-threatening sepsis.
- Early detection, appropriate medical treatment, and strict infection control measures are crucial to managing C. auris infections and preventing further spread, especially in hospitals and nursing homes.
- California, Texas, and Tennessee report the highest number of cases, highlighting the growing regional impact of this emerging fungal threat.
