Health officials have identified a novel infection in the UK that is causing illness, leading some individuals to be hospitalized. Known as Candidozyma auris (C. auris), this particular type of yeast was only recently uncovered.
In a recent announcement, the UK Health Security Agency disclosed that cases of C. auris have been detected in patients at multiple hospitals in England. Candidozyma is a group of yeasts that typically reside on the skin and within the human body. However, if it enters the bloodstream, especially in hospitalized patients, it can trigger a severe systemic infection that may persist for years.
Initially isolated from a person’s ear in Japan in 2009, C. auris has since been reported in over 40 countries. It spreads through direct contact with the fungus on infected individuals or contaminated surfaces. Some individuals may carry C. auris without showing symptoms, a condition known as colonization, which requires certain precautions to prevent transmission in healthcare settings.
The UKHSA emphasized that C. auris infections are primarily being monitored in hospital patients, many of whom may unknowingly carry the fungus. The agency highlighted that the spread of C. auris mainly occurs through contact, underscoring the challenges in eradicating it from the environment due to its resilience on surfaces and potential transmission via various means.
For individuals testing positive for C. auris without exhibiting infection symptoms, standard antifungal treatments are ineffective against the carried fungus but may foster resistance. Healthcare professionals typically conduct swab tests on different body parts to detect C. auris during hospital stays.
The UKHSA outlined preventive measures for reducing the risk of C. auris infection and transmission, advising individuals on symptoms and appropriate actions if infected. Moreover, the agency stressed the importance of informing healthcare providers about C. auris status during subsequent medical visits to mitigate potential spread and ensure tailored care.
Collaborating closely with hospitals encountering C. auris cases, the UKHSA offers guidance on containment strategies, including testing, isolation protocols, hand hygiene practices, and enhanced cleaning procedures. Visitors to affected hospital wards are advised to observe strict hygiene measures to prevent inadvertent transmission of C. auris.
By adhering to these preventive measures, individuals can help curb the spread of C. auris and protect both patients and healthcare workers from potential infections.