Health officials across the UK are on alert after identifying a new fungal infection spreading in hospitals. Known as Candidozyma auris (C. auris), this yeast has been named a critical priority pathogen by the World Health Organisation (WHO) because of its growing resistance to treatment and potential danger to vulnerable patients. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is now working with NHS England and other health partners to monitor rising detections of C. auris, which until recently had been rare in the country. Globally, the infection has been linked to a high death rate, raising concern for hospitalised patients with weakened immune systems.What Is Candidozyma Auris?C. auris is a type of fungus that can lead to severe infections, particularly among those who are already ill. Some strains have shown resistance to multiple antifungal drugs, making treatment difficult. It spreads most often in hospitals and long-term care facilities. According to the Cleveland Clinic, infections may include:Ear infectionsWound infectionsUrinary tract infections (UTIs)Bloodstream infections that can spread throughout the bodyUnlike other Candida species, C. auris does not typically live naturally on the body. People usually contract it from contaminated hospital surfaces or from someone who already has the infection. For healthy individuals, the risk of infection remains low.How Common Are Candidozyma Auris Infections?C. auris remains uncommon but is considered an emerging infectious disease due to the rising number of reported cases since 2019. Healthcare professionals are increasing infection-control measures to contain its spread in hospitals and care homes.Symptoms Of Candidozyma AurisThe symptoms vary depending on which part of the body is infected. Common signs include:FeverChillsFatigue or extreme tirednessLow blood pressureRapid heartbeat (tachycardia)Low body temperature (hypothermia)Ear pain, pressure, or a sense of fullness (in ear infections)Because C. auris often affects people who are already seriously unwell, its symptoms may not always be obvious. Some individuals may carry the fungus without showing any signs but can still pass it on to others.According to a UKHSA statement, C. auris was first discovered in 2009 in the ear of a patient in Japan and has since been detected in over 40 countries across six continents. The agency explains that the fungus is particularly concerning because it can survive for long periods on surfaces—even in hospital settings—and is often resistant to both standard medical treatments and disinfectants.Since 2015, several long-lasting outbreaks of C. auris have occurred in UK hospitals, requiring intensive control measures to stop further transmission. Peaks in cases have mostly been linked to these outbreaks.Can Candidozyma Auris Be Cured?C. auris infections can often be treated with a type of antifungal medication called echinocandins. However, certain strains are developing resistance, making them more difficult to cure. In such cases, doctors may need to combine different drugs to eliminate the infection. Before starting any medication, it is important to consult a qualified healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment advice.
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