Candida Auris

Candida auris (C. auris) is a yeast, belonging to the fungal category, known for causing severe and potentially fatal infections. Its prevalence is on the rise in healthcare settings such as hospitals and nursing homes, where it can rapidly disseminate, posing significant threats to the health of those affected. Individuals who become infected, as well as their family members and those in close proximity, are at considerable risk of contracting the infection.

Initially identified in Japan in 2009, C. auris has since become a global concern, reaching the United States. The population most vulnerable to this fungus includes residents in long-term care facilities and individuals with compromised immune systems.

Candida auris - precautions

Transmission of C. auris can occur through direct contact with infected patients or contaminated surfaces via airborne droplets. It can live on surfaces like bed rails, IV stands, door handles, and other objects — including humans — for weeks or even months.

This longevity on surfaces facilitates the fungus's transmission from person to person through contact with contaminated surfaces. Additionally, airborne particles generated by coughing or sneezing can contribute to the spread. In some instances, C. auris may be transmitted through shared medical equipment, procedures, and even skin-to-skin contact between individuals.

Candida auris - symptoms

Infections caused by Candida auris, known as candidiasis, can manifest with symptoms such as fever, joint pain, nausea, vomiting, and skin rashes. Particularly concerning is the potential for the infection to enter the bloodstream, leading to severe consequences, especially in individuals with compromised immune systems.

While some individuals may carry C. auris on their bodies without displaying symptoms, they can still act as carriers capable of infecting others. This group of asymptomatic "colonized" individuals poses the greatest risk to the population. Despite appearing well, they can inadvertently spread the infection, potentially infecting numerous individuals.

In healthcare settings like long-term care facilities, nursing homes, and assisted living communities, where patients and residents often have weakened immune systems, the transmission of Candida auris can be particularly perilous and even fatal.

Candida auris - treatment

Fungal infections, including candidiasis, present challenges in terms of treatment. Many physicians resort to administering antifungal drugs to alleviate symptoms and prevent further transmission.

However, caution is warranted when treating Candida auris, as it tends to exhibit resistance to commonly used antifungal drugs. Healthcare professionals must exercise prudence in the selection of drugs to avoid exacerbating the infection.

Candida auris - transmission

Since 2020, there has been a notable surge in C. auris infections throughout the United States, particularly in healthcare environments with individuals who have compromised immune systems.

Given the fungus's ability to disseminate through airborne particles and endure on surfaces, it is crucial to implement preventive measures, such as thorough cleaning of areas where C. auris might be present.

Apart from employing C. auris-specific disinfectants for surface cleaning, the proactive use of active air and surface purifiers can effectively neutralize pathogens like C. auris.

Before considering an additional protective layer, it is advisable to scrutinize:

1. The stated efficacy of the technology.

2. Whether the technology has been examined by independent laboratories.

3. If the technology has demonstrated effectiveness in real-world scenarios.

ActivePure Technology, for instance, has exhibited the capability to reduce the presence of Candida auris on surfaces by more than 99.9% within 48 hours.