C. auris fungal infections reported in 3 AZ counties
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CDC
A medical illustration of Candida sp. fungal organisms.
The Arizona Department of Health Services has reported several Arizona cases of Candida auris (C. auris), a yeast that can spread through the body via the bloodstream and cause serious and even deadly fungal infections.
The department reports 19 infections found through diagnostic testing and 18 bodily colonizations caught through screening.
Nearly all occurred in Maricopa County, with a few in Pima, Cochise and Mohave counties.
Last year, Arizona reached 53 known cases.
Scientists are still learning about C. auris, which is difficult to detect, resists most antifungal drugs and spreads within health care settings.
Those who come in contact with a patient should use sanitizer or wash their hands thoroughly to prevent spread.
