Deadly, drug-resistant fungus CDC calls 'urgent threat' is spreading in hospitals

Los Angeles Times - Mar 27th, 2025

A drug-resistant fungus, Candida auris, is causing alarm as it continues to spread rapidly in hospitals and senior care facilities across the United States, leading to a high mortality rate among infected individuals. First identified in the U.S. in 2016, the number of infections has surged to 4,514 cases by 2023, with California reporting the highest number of cases. The CDC has labeled C. auris an 'urgent threat' due to its resistance to antifungal drugs, rapid spread in healthcare settings, and severe infection outcomes. Recent reports indicate a rise in cases in Georgia and Florida, emphasizing the need for improved surveillance, diagnostic testing, and infection control measures.

C. auris primarily affects individuals who are already seriously ill, spreading through direct contact and contaminated surfaces. While healthy individuals are at low risk, those with medical devices such as catheters and breathing tubes are particularly vulnerable. The fungus's ability to live on surfaces for weeks and resist common disinfectants complicates prevention efforts. Hospitals are implementing screening and isolation procedures to protect patients. The situation underscores the critical need for enhanced infection prevention strategies to prevent hospital-acquired infections and safeguard vulnerable populations.

Florida California Georgia Cdc Candida Auris Drug Resistant Fungus Healthcare Facilities Hospital Infections Antifungal Resistance

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RATING

7.6

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a comprehensive overview of the threat posed by Candida auris, a drug-resistant fungus, and its spread in the United States. It effectively uses expert opinions and CDC data to highlight the seriousness of the issue, ensuring factual accuracy and clarity. However, the article could benefit from greater transparency regarding the sources of specific data points and a broader range of perspectives to enhance balance. While the topic is timely and of significant public interest, the article's potential impact and engagement could be strengthened by including personal stories or interactive elements. Overall, the article serves as a reliable source of information for readers concerned about public health and infectious diseases, though there is room for improvement in certain areas to maximize its effectiveness.

Accuracy

The article provides a generally accurate account of the spread of Candida auris (C. auris) in the United States, referencing the CDC's classification of the fungus as an 'urgent threat' due to its drug resistance and high mortality rate. It correctly states that C. auris was first identified in the U.S. in 2016 and that the number of cases has increased significantly, reaching 4,514 in 2023. However, the specific number of infections reported in California and the exact mortality rate range are not directly supported by the sources provided, suggesting a need for further verification. The article's claim about C. auris's resistance to common disinfectants is consistent with expert reports, adding credibility to the piece.

Balance

The article primarily focuses on the medical and public health perspectives regarding C. auris, with statements from CDC officials and infectious disease experts. While it effectively highlights the seriousness of the threat and the measures being taken to combat it, the article could benefit from including perspectives from healthcare workers directly dealing with the infections or patients affected by the fungus. This would provide a more comprehensive view of the issue and address any potential biases towards institutional viewpoints.

Clarity

The article is well-structured and uses clear, accessible language to explain the threat posed by C. auris. It logically presents the information, beginning with the identification of the fungus and progressing to its current spread and impact. The use of quotes and specific examples helps to clarify complex medical concepts, making the article easy to understand for a general audience.

Source quality

The article cites credible sources, such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and statements from infectious disease experts. The inclusion of direct quotes from a CDC epidemiologist and a chief of infectious diseases adds authority to the claims made. However, the article could enhance its credibility by including references to specific studies or reports that provide empirical data on the spread and impact of C. auris.

Transparency

While the article clearly attributes statements to specific experts and the CDC, it lacks detailed information on the methodology used to gather some of the data presented, such as the precise number of infections in California. Additionally, the article does not disclose any potential conflicts of interest or biases that might influence the reporting. Greater transparency in these areas would enhance the article's trustworthiness.