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Candida Auris Fungus Spreading in Healthcare Settings

Weekly alert: What are St. Lousians hearing about Candida auris?

Suggested Caption:

Nearly 1 in 3 St. Louis adults heard about a new fungus spreading between people. Adults age 40 and older were much more likely to hear it than those younger than 40. Most people heard the claim on TV and radio. The fungus is called Candida auris (C. auris) and commonly spreads in healthcare settings such as hospitals and nursing homes. Although the fungus is still relatively rare, its spread increased from 2020 to 2021 and the CDC has labeled it an urgent threat.

C. auris spreads from person to person or by contact with contaminated surfaces. It is resistant to some traditional treatments, with as high as a 30-60% mortality rate among infected patients. The fungus has been detected in more than half the states, including Illinois. If a fungal infection is suspected, it is important to seek medical attention. Health officials and providers recommend that individuals regularly wash their hands and practice personal hygiene to limit the spread, particularly in healthcare settings.

#iHeardSTL #CAuris #CandidaAuris #FungalInfection #HandHygiene #WashYourHands #Outbreaks #CDC #Hospitals


What can we do about the fungal infection spike?

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St. Louis residents are hearing about the spike in C. auris fungal infections, but what can be done to prevent the spread? While the fungus is still rare, it’s best to practice good hand hygiene and cleaning in healthcare settings.

#iHeardSTL #CAuris #CandidaAuris #FungalInfection #HandHygiene #WashYourHands #Outbreaks #CDC #Hospitals

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