Candida auris: What You Need to Know

You've probably heard the name Candida auris in the news, but what does it actually mean for you or a loved one? In short, it's a type of yeast that can cause serious infections and is tough to treat because many standard antifungal drugs don't work. It first showed up in Japan in 2009 and has since popped up in hospitals around the world.

What makes C. auris a real worry is its ability to survive on surfaces for weeks and to spread quickly in health‑care settings. If you or someone you know is staying in a hospital, nursing home, or long‑term care facility, it pays to know the basics—how it spreads, what symptoms to watch for, and what you can do to stay safe.

How Candida auris Spreads and Who Is at Risk

The fungus hops from person to person mainly through skin contact or by landing on equipment, bed rails, or even a doorknob. It can live on these surfaces longer than many other bugs, which is why thorough cleaning matters. People with weakened immune systems, open wounds, or those who have been on broad‑spectrum antibiotics are especially vulnerable. That includes patients in intensive care, those with catheters, and anyone who has had recent surgery.

Symptoms can look like any other fungal infection: fever that won’t go away, chills, and sometimes a rash or redness around a wound. In bloodstream infections, you might feel very sick, get rapid breathing, or have low blood pressure. Because the signs are vague, doctors need lab tests to confirm it’s C. auris, not a regular yeast.

Treating and Preventing a C. auris Outbreak

When it comes to treatment, the first step is to find an antifungal that actually works. Doctors usually run susceptibility tests to see which drugs the particular strain responds to. Echinocandins—like caspofungin—are often the go‑to, but resistance is rising, so close monitoring is critical.

Prevention starts with hygiene. Hand washing with alcohol‑based sanitizer isn’t enough; you need soap and water when possible. Hospitals should use disinfectants proven to kill C. auris (look for EPA‑approved products). If you’re a patient or visitor, ask staff about cleaning protocols and whether they isolate patients with confirmed infections.

For families, keep an eye on any unusual fever or skin changes in a loved one who’s been hospitalized. Notify the care team right away—early detection can keep the infection from spreading to other patients.

Bottom line: Candida auris is a tough opponent, but knowing how it spreads, spotting symptoms early, and insisting on proper cleaning can make a big difference. Stay informed, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to push for the right tests and treatments if you suspect an infection.