Rare virus detected in US: 4 ‘Candida Auris’ cases reported in Washington – Know all about its symptoms, prevention and history – News Healthcare

The United States is attacked by a rare dangerous fungal infection known as Candida auris which is rapidly spreading with four recent cases in Washington state. Doctors have shown concern about its potential dangers due to a high fatality rate, drug resistance, and its ability to easily spread in healthcare facilities, according to a report by NBC News.

The first case was confirmed on January 10, and the public health agency for Seattle and King County revealed three more instances of Candida auris infection last week. This fungus tends to infect individuals with weakened immune systems and is resistant to several common antifungal drugs. Patients in hospitals who use feeding tubes, breathing tubes, or catheters are more prone to contracting it.

Symptoms

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) states that Candida auris can cause infections in various parts of the body, such as the bloodstream, open wounds, and ears. The symptoms depend on the site and severity of the infection. While a bacterial infection may show similar symptoms, there isn’t a typical set of signs associated with Candida auris infections.

This fungal infection can be present on the skin and other body sites without causing illness, termed as “colonization.” A colonized person may transmit it to others without falling ill. The CDC warns that someone colonized with Candida auris can spread it onto surfaces or objects they touch, leading to transmission to other patients.

In case of colonization or infection, patients should be isolated in a separate room. The room should be thoroughly cleaned with disinfectant products, and caregivers should wear gloves and gowns. People must use alcohol-based hand sanitiser or wash their hands before entering and leaving the patient’s room, as well as before and after contact with the patient or their medical devices to prevent further spread.

Originated from Japan

Candida auris was discovered in Japan 15 years ago, and cases have surged in recent years. In 2022, it infected 2,377 people, a significant increase from 53 cases in 2016. The rapid spread across most US states and 40 countries has led the CDC and World Health Organization to classify it as a growing threat. In 2021, the fungus infected 1,471 people, according to CDC data.