Candida: The Unfriendly YeastPage 7 of 8

5 Summary

 

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Candida is a type of yeast that is part of the normal flora of the human body. An opportunistic infection, it can grow out of control and cause candidiasis. Candida auris is a new type of yeast seen recently in hospitals that has recently caused serious outbreaks and a high mortality for patients at risk (including children younger than 1 year, and adults older than 65).

The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention monitor cases of candidiasis and candidemia and have noted trends showing increases in several states as C. auris has become drug resistant—causing national alarm. Healthcare professionals need to be aware of the causes, risk factors, prevention, and treatment for the most common types of candida, especially albicans and auris.

Simple hand-washing and correct use of personal protective equipment and room cleaning are all effective methods to prevent the spread of C. auris in our hospitals.

Resources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Educational materials, laboratory submission information, and resources for health professionals. https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/resources.html.