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A Method to Test the Efficacy of Handwashing for the Removal of Emerging Infectious Pathogens
Published on: June 7, 2017
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The emerging pathogen Candida auris: A focus on the Middle-Eastern countries.
Wadha Alfouzan1, Rita Dhar2, Ahmed Albarrag3
1Microbiology Unit, Department of Laboratories, Farwania Hospital, Kuwait; Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait.
Journal of Infection and Public Health
|April 20, 2019
Summary
Multidrug-resistant Candida auris is a growing global health threat. This study highlights its limited reporting in the Middle East, where it causes severe bloodstream infections with high mortality.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Candida auris is an emerging multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen.
- It causes difficult-to-control nosocomial infections with high mortality.
- Global spread since 2009, but limited data from the Middle East.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review reported cases of Candida auris in the Middle East.
- To analyze patient demographics, clinical presentation, and outcomes.
- To assess antifungal susceptibility patterns.
Main Methods:
- Literature search for Candida auris cases in the Middle East over the past three years.
- Analysis of reported patient data including comorbidities and infection types.
- In vitro antifungal susceptibility testing of isolates.
Main Results:
- Six Middle Eastern countries reported cases: Kuwait, Israel, Oman, KSA, UAE, and Iran.
- All reported patients were adults with comorbidities.
- Majority had bloodstream infections with a 60% crude mortality rate.
- All isolates were misidentified by commercial systems, requiring specialized identification.
- 100% of strains were resistant to fluconazole; variable resistance to other antifungals.
Conclusions:
- Candida auris poses a significant public health concern in the Middle East.
- Accurate identification and antifungal stewardship are crucial.
- Further surveillance and research are needed to combat this pathogen.
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