CITIZENS NEWS

Multidrug-resistant Candida auris: The SILENT KILLER in America's hospitals

By avagrace // 2025-04-02

• Infections caused by drug-resistant Candida auris have surged in the U.S. since 2016, with cases jumping from 52 to 4,514 by 2023. The CDC deems the superbug, which now affects 38 states, as an "urgent threat."
• The pathogen resists most disinfectants and antifungal drugs, including first- and second-line treatments like Diflucan and Mycamine. It survives on surfaces for weeks, increasing transmission risks.
• The fungus often enter through wounds or medical devices, leading to bloodstream infections with a 30 percent mortality rate. Vulnerable groups include hospitalized patients and those using invasive devices.
• Symptoms (fever, chills, wound infections) mimic common illnesses, delaying diagnosis. The fungus can also infect organs, making timely treatment critical.
• C. auris is spreading beyond hospitals into communities (e.g., Nevada) and globally. Researchers are developing new treatments, while hospitals use specialized "List P" disinfectants to curb outbreaks.

In the shadowy corridors of America's healthcare facilities, a new and deadly threat is silently spreading. Candida auris, a drug-resistant fungus, is rapidly becoming one of the most formidable adversaries faced by health officials today. Described by some medical professionals as akin to "having cancer," this insidious pathogen is not only resistant to most treatments but is also spreading at an alarming rate, posing a significant risk to public health. First detected in U.S. hospitals in 2016, C. auris initially seemed like a minor concern with only 52 cases reported across four states. However, the situation has since spiraled out of control. By 2023, the number of infections had skyrocketed to 4,514, affecting 38 states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) declared it an "urgent threat" in 2023, but the situation has only worsened. States like Georgia and Florida are now experiencing a rapid increase in cases, raising the alarm bells even louder. (Related: First outbreak of deadly, treatment-resistant fungal infection reported in Washington State.) C. auris is a type of yeast infection that is notoriously difficult to treat. It is resistant to most standard disinfectants and antifungal drugs, making it a formidable foe in hospital settings. This resistance extends to common antifungal medications like Diflucan, and even second-line treatments such as Mycamine are ineffective in 10 percent of cases. The fungus can colonize the skin and survive on surfaces like medical equipment and bedrails for weeks, making it a persistent threat. The consequences of a C. auris infection can be devastating. The fungus can enter the body through cuts or medical devices such as breathing tubes and catheters, leading to severe infections. Identifying an infection can be challenging as symptoms often mimic those of other infections – including fever, chills and aches. In some cases, infected wounds may show redness, warmth and pus. The fungus can also cause infections in the bloodstream and vital organs, which can be fatal if not treated promptly. Once it spreads to the bloodstream, it can cause life-threatening conditions. Approximately one in three people who contract C. auris succumb to the infection. Those with prolonged hospital stays or who require invasive treatments are particularly vulnerable.

The spread of a lethal superbug

The fungus is not only spreading within hospitals, but is also beginning to affect the community. Nevada health officials have warned that C. auris may be spreading beyond healthcare facilities for the first time in U.S. history. This development is particularly concerning given the fungus's ability to survive on surfaces and its resistance to many common disinfectants. The threat of C. auris is not confined to the United States. Since its discovery in Japan in 2009, it has spread globally, causing outbreaks in hospitals and long-term care facilities worldwide. Meanwhile, the Public Health Agency of Canada has labeled it a "disease of public health significance." Researchers are working tirelessly to develop new treatments and improve detection methods. Healthcare facilities are adopting more stringent cleaning protocols, using specialized disinfectants designed to kill the fungus. Dr. Timothy Connelly of Memorial Health in Savannah, Georgia, emphasizes the importance of using "List P" disinfectants, which are specifically designed to combat C. auris. C. auris represents a significant challenge to global health. Its resistance to treatment, coupled with its ability to spread easily in healthcare settings, makes it a formidable adversary. However, with continued research, improved infection control measures and heightened awareness, it is possible to mitigate its impact and protect vulnerable populations. Watch this news report about deaths from C. auris infections in 2021. This video is from the InfowarSSideBand channel on Brighteon.com.

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sanitation antibiotic resistance health care hospitals pandemic superbugs outbreak dangerous infections plague Candida auris disinfectants badscience badhealth yeast infection hospital settings antifungal drugs