CDC Warns Against Deadly Fungus Found in 28 States Including Michigan
It has certainly been no secret that we, as a society, have been through more than our fair share of fear, stress, and uncertainty over the past few years. From a global pandemic, to political opposition, to an overwhelming number of unidentified flying objects in our skies.
It seems we've found our next challenge. A new fungus by the name of Candida Auris has been slowly rearing its ugly head across the country over the years, but it's back in the news as the CDC has warned against the rapid spread. Here are the facts on what we know now.
What is Candida Auris
Candida auris, or C. auris, by definition, is a species of fungus that grows as yeast and can spread throughout the body. It is one of the few species of Candida fungus which cause candidiasis in humans, a disease acquired in hospitals by patients with weakened immune systems that can lead to infection.
What Are the Biggest Concerns with the C. Auris Fungus
Firstly, according to the CDC, what makes this fungus so dangerous is the fact that it typically doesn't respond to commonly used antifungal drugs, making it difficult to treat.
Secondly, and almost equally as alarming, the fungus is difficult to identify with standard laboratory methods, making it easy to misidentify without specific technology. Treating it with the wrong medication can make the infection worse.
Last, but certainly not least, this fungus is most commonly found in healthcare settings, where many sick people sit in close quarters. This makes figuring out what it is quickly crucial to stopping the spread.
Where Has C. Auris Been Confirmed
With the first case being identified in Japan in 2009, the fungus has slowly moved its way to the United States throughout the years. The map below shows the 28 states that have been affected so far. The darker the color, the higher number of cases. Michigan has been affected but is still under the '100 cases' mark.
We got through 2020, and everything it left in its wake. So, we have to believe we will make it through this too. If there is one thing we have learned as society since this first pandemic, education is the key. The more we know, the more we can help prevent the spread.