The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on a drug-resistant and potentially fatal fungus that is rapidly spreading across the country, citing federal researchers. In recent years, the number of cases of Candida auris, which was first identified in Japan 15 years ago, has risen. According to the outlet, 2,377 people were infected in 2022 as opposed to 53 in 2016. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) have classified the fungus as a developing danger as a result of its rapid expansion over the majority of US states and 40 other nations.
According to CDC data, the fungus affected 1,471 persons in 2021.
The health organization stated in its recommendation that Candida auris has a mortality rate of up to 60% and particularly poses a risk to elderly individuals and those with weakened immune systems.
The Annals of Internal Medicine journal has released a warning from the CDC on its spread.
Mississippi is fighting a growing outbreak of the fungus, with 12 cases recorded since November last year.
Tammy Yates, a spokeswoman for the Mississippi State Department of Health, told NBC News that “unfortunately, multi-drug resistant organisms like C. auris have grown increasingly common among our highest risk individuals, such as residents in long-term care institutions”.
The fungus can be found on the skin and in every part of the body, according to the CDC. It poses no risk to healthy individuals.
In hospitals and elderly homes, Candida auris is frequently spread from person to person, as well as through contact with infected surfaces and equipment. According to the CDC, the fungus can survive on surfaces for several weeks.