Drug-Resistant Fungus Cases Surge Across Europe, Raising alarm
A perilous, drug-resistant fungus, Candidozyma auris (C. auris), is rapidly spreading in European hospitals, prompting warnings from health officials. Cases have dramatically increased across the continent, with over 4,000 reported between 2013 and 2023, and a notable jump to 1,346 cases in 18 countries during 2023 alone, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).
C. auris can cause severe infections, particularly in patients with underlying health conditions. Estimating a precise mortality rate is challenging due to the vulnerability of those infected, but studies suggest it ranges from 30% to 60%, according to the Cleveland Clinic. The fungus is particularly concerning because it ofen resists antifungal medications and isn’t effectively eliminated by many common hospital disinfectants.
Outbreaks have been identified in cyprus, France, and Germany. Spain, Italy, Romania, and Greece have reported widespread dissemination, making it difficult to track specific outbreaks. The CDC notes that C. auris’s ability to survive on surfaces and medical equipment contributes to its challenging control.
Between 2016 and 2023, the United States recorded 10,788 clinical cases of C. auris.
Health officials recommend stringent infection control measures to prevent transmission in healthcare facilities, including meticulous hand hygiene, isolation precautions, effective environmental disinfection, and interaction during patient transfers to alert providers of any existing infections.
Diane Duenez (Managing Weekend Editor) contributed to this report.
