A new article published in Pathogens and Disease reported that Candida auris is a fungal species that had emerged simultaneously, in five continents. Since its identification in 2009, the scientific community has witnessed an exponential emergence of infectious episodes and outbreaks in healthcare facilities world-wide.

The authors discussed that Candida auris exhibits several exclusive and concerning features compared to other related Candida species – including persistent colonization of skin and nosocomial surfaces, ability to resist common disinfectants and to spread rapidly among patients. Resistance to multiple drug classes and misidentification by available laboratory identification systems has complicated clinical management. Moreover, the outcomes of infection have generally been poor with mortality rates of about 68%.

This article elaborated that the origins of C. auris remain unclear; hence, it is impossible to determine whether environmental and climactic changes were contributing factors in its recent emergence as a pathogen. A magnanimous response involving rapid diagnostics, prompt interventions and implementation of precautions are essential in preventing the spread of this fungal infection. Therefore, it was stated that there exists a pressing need for the development of new antifungal drugs.

Source: Pathogens and Disease. 2020 Jul 9;ftaa034. doi: 10.1093/femspd/ftaa034.