SAN ANTONIO – A deadly fungus known as Candida auris has been making headlines as it continues to spread in Texas, particularly in healthcare settings. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been 459 reported cases of this infection in Texas since mid-August, ranking the state as having the third-highest total in the United States.
Nationwide, the CDC has reported over 4,500 cases of Candida auris since August 15, with Texas trailing only California and Nevada in infection numbers. Experts caution that these figures may be underreported, highlighting a growing concern around the fungus.
Researchers at UT Health San Antonio stress that the rise in cases is not the only issue at hand; there is an increasing problem with antifungal resistance, making the infections more challenging to treat. Candida auris poses a significant risk to vulnerable populations, particularly those already suffering from other illnesses or receiving care in hospitals and long-term care facilities.
“Once it gets into a setting like a hospital room, you can find it on bed rails, doorknobs, mobile medical equipment,” explained Dr. Nathan Wiederhold, who manages the fungus testing lab at UT Health San Antonio. “If these surfaces are not cleaned appropriately, the fungus can easily spread to other rooms and patients.”
Dr. Wiederhold, a professor in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, has dedicated two decades to studying fungi. He emphasizes that while healthy individuals rarely fall ill from Candida auris, the infection can have serious consequences for those who do. The mortality rate for patients with severe infections ranges between 30% and 60%, depending on their overall health.
A major concern surrounding Candida auris is its resistance to antifungal medications. “One of the primary antifungals used globally, fluconazole, has shown resistance in about 90% of the isolates,” Dr. Wiederhold noted. This resistance often develops due to incorrect medication administration or dosages.
To combat this issue, increased awareness among healthcare providers, improved access to testing, more clinical trials, and the development of new antifungal drugs are essential. Dr. Wiederhold and his research team are actively involved in addressing these challenges and recently published findings emphasizing the urgent need for new treatment options.
In the meantime, basic preventive measures remain crucial in healthcare environments. Dr. Wiederhold advises that patients, visitors, and healthcare workers should wash their hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Utilizing alcohol-based hand sanitizers can also significantly enhance hand hygiene.
Researchers at UT Health San Antonio are committed to studying antifungal resistance as health officials continue to monitor the spread of Candida auris in Texas and nationwide. As awareness grows, it is hoped that effective strategies can be implemented to control this emerging threat.
