Candida auris Outbreak In Washington: Who Is At Risk Of Infection With The Fungus, And Why It Is An Urgent Threat

Candida auris is a yeast, and can enter the bloodstream, spread throughout the body, and cause invasive infections such as bloodstream infections, wound infections, and ear infections.

Candida auris can be resistant to certain medications. In order to prevent the spread of Candida auris, patients who test positive for the fungus must distance themselves from healthy individuals. Also, disinfectants that can kill Candida auris must be used to clean products. 

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Candida auris: Washington state in the United States reported four cases of fungal infection caused by Candida auris in January 2024. This is the first known outbreak caused by Candida auris in Washington, Seattle and King County health officials said in a statement. In July 2023, one locally acquired case was detected. Candida auris infection has not caused any death in the state so far.  Every year since 2016, Candida auris cases have risen in the US. Of the four patients who tested