Four genomic clades of Candida auris identified in Canada, 2012-2019

Candida auris is an emerging yeast that is associated with antifungal resistance and healthcare-associated outbreaks. From 2012 to 2019, there were 24 known cases of C. auris colonization or infection in Canada. Isolates were from axilla/groin (n = 6), ear (n = 5), blood (n = 4), toe (n = 2), and a variety of other sites (n = 7). Canadian isolates belonged to the four main genomic clades: Clade I (formerly called South Asian clade, n = 12), Clade II (East Asian, n = 3), Clade III (African, n = 4), and Clade IV (South American, n = 5). Isolates within each clade were clonal; however, whole genome sequencing may be helpful in identifying clusters within healthcare facilities.

The fungal pathogen Candida auris has caused many hospital outbreaks and is often multidrug resistant. All four major strains of C. auris were identified in Canada from 2012 to 2019. Genomic epidemiology may be useful for identifying and reducing transmission of C. auris within hospitals.