Candida auris: Growing Concern for Healthcare

• By: Maureen Carland
• On: 03/30/2023 13:18:59
• In: Quality/Regulatory

Candida auris (C. auris) is a newly discovered, highly resistant organism that has become a growing concern for healthcare professionals around the world (General Information about Candida auris | Candida auris | Fungal Diseases | CDC). Unlike other Candida species, C. auris is quickly becoming resistant to the limited number of antifungal treatments, making it difficult to manage and control. C. auris has now been identified in over 25 states in the USA and continues to spread in the USA. (CDC Tracker). 

C. auris can be particularly problematic in nursing homes, where patients may arrive from hospitals with the organism. While there have not been any cases of C. auris acquired in Maine, one Maine resident acquired it out of state. As the fungus continues to spread, it is only a matter of time before it arrives in Maine. In response, Maine CDC is conducting state-wide surveillance to monitor for this organism, working closely with all laboratories to ensure proper testing, and working with healthcare facilities to slow the spread.

The primary infection control measures for prevention in healthcare settings include practicing good hand hygiene, appropriate use of precautions- contact or transmission-based precautions, cleaning and disinfecting (Infection Prevention and Control for Candida auris | Candida auris | Fungal Diseases | CDC)

C. auris is reportable in Maine if you suspect or have confirmed cases notify Maine CDC by calling 1-800-821-5821.

Staff contact: mcarland@mehca.org