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Investigation of the First Seven Reported Cases of Candida auris, a Globally Emerging Invasive, Multidrug-Resistant
S Vallabhaneni1, A Kallen2, S Tsay1,3
1Mycotic Diseases Branch, Division of Food Water and Environmental Diseases, CDC, Atlanta, GA.
Abstract:
November 11, 2016/65(44);1234-1237. What is already known about this topic? Candida auris is an emerging pathogenic fungus that has been reported from at least a dozen countries on four continents during 2009-2015. The organism is difficult to identify using traditional biochemical methods, some isolates have been found to be resistant to all three major classes of antifungal medications, and C. auris has caused health care-associated outbreaks. What is added by this report? This is the first description of C. auris cases in the United States. C. auris appears to have emerged in the United States only in the last few years, and U.S. isolates are related to isolates from South America and South Asia. Evidence from U.S. case investigations suggests likely transmission of the organism occurred in health care settings. What are the implications for public health practice? It is important that U.S. laboratories accurately identify C. auris and for health care facilities to implement recommended infection control practices to prevent the spread of C. auris. Local and state health departments and CDC should be notified of possible cases of C. auris and of isolates of C. haemulonii and Candida spp. that cannot be identified after routine testing.
Insights
The emerging fungus Candida auris has been identified in the United States, with U.S. cases linked to international strains and likely spread within healthcare settings. Accurate identification and infection control are crucial for public health.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health Microbiology
Background:
- Candida auris is an emerging multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen causing outbreaks globally.
- Identification challenges exist with traditional methods, and resistance to antifungals is a concern.
- Previous reports were limited to international cases from 2009-2015.
Discussion:
- This report details the first U.S. cases of Candida auris, appearing recently.
- U.S. isolates show genetic links to South American and South Asian strains.
- Evidence suggests transmission within U.S. healthcare facilities.
Key Insights:
- Candida auris has emerged in the United States, with U.S. strains related to international ones.
- Healthcare-associated transmission is indicated by U.S. case investigations.
- Accurate laboratory identification of C. auris is essential.
Outlook:
- Public health requires enhanced surveillance and infection control measures for C. auris.
- Healthcare facilities must implement strategies to prevent C. auris spread.
- Prompt notification of health departments and the CDC is vital for managing C. auris and unidentified Candida species.
