Updated
Updated · KIRO Seattle · Aug 9Washington Reports 13 Candida auris Cases as Only 2 Pacific States Record Infections
3 articles · Updated · KIRO Seattle · Aug 9Summary
- Thirteen Candida auris cases have been reported in Washington so far this year, according to a CDC report tracking the drug-resistant fungus.
- Candida auris spreads most easily in healthcare facilities, where it can cause hard-to-treat infections and raise risks for vulnerable patients.
- Washington and California are the only two states in the CDC's Pacific region that have reported cases this year.
- The CDC says the fungus can be deadly, but fatalities are most likely among people who were already very sick before infection.
Insights
Could the rapid spread of this deadly superbug signal the terrifying end of effective antifungal treatments? Is a silent, drug-resistant fungus lurking undetected on the medical equipment meant to save your life?