CDC Warns Of A Deadly Fungus In The U.S. With Cases Found In Minnesota + Wisconsin

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) want to warn the general public about a Fungus that spreads very rapidly and can be deadly for certain individuals. The fungus is called Candida auris (C.auris).

The CDC released a memo saying this deadly fungus is spreading at an "alarming rate" over half the country including Minnesota and Wisconsin. The problem with this type of fungus is that it is resistant to anti-fungal drugs making it hard to treat. Some strains are called "superbugs" and are resistant to all three types of antibiotics that are used to treat fungal infections.

On top of that it is often difficult to detect with standard lab tests. This fungus can spread very easily and can infect wounds, ears, and the bloodstream. As reported by NBC 26 WGBA the CDC said In a memo released Monday:

CDC has deemed C. auris as an urgent AR threat, because it is often resistant to multiple antifungal drugs, spreads easily in healthcare facilities, and can cause severe infections with high death rates."

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It is important to note that this fungus is not a threat to healthy people, it is deemed a threat to people who are very sick, have invasive medical devices, and have long or frequent stays in healthcare facilities. There fore screening is of the utmost importance to protect patients and staff alike. Also cleaning and disinfecting always needs to be a high priority, especially in these kinds of environments.

Below is a map outlining where the fungus has been diagnosed in the last 12 months.