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N.Y. (WBNG) — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a nationwide alert as a highly transmissible, multidrug-resistant fungus continues to spread across more than two dozen states, including New York and Pennsylvania
The fungus, Candida auris (C. auris), presents a significant threat in <a href="https://healthylife7.com/ryder-drives-into-home-healthcare-with-supply-chain-logistics-services/” title=”Ryder drives into home healthcare with supply chain, logistics services “>healthcare facilities, particularly for patients who are hospitalized or require ventilator support
Dr. Lazarus Gehring, the Broome County Medical Director and Medical Examiner, emphasized the global scale of the emerging threat
“It’s on us. It’s in six continents. It’s been in dozens of countries by now,” Gehring said, describing the fungus as highly transmissible and multidrug-resistant. “Spooky. High mortality rate. Yes. But thankfully, this is something that just lives on the skin and is opportunistic.”
While national numbers are rising, local cases in Broome County remain low. According to Dr. Gehring, the county has identified three cases of C. auris within the last 18 to 24 months
Statewide, the numbers are much higher. New York State recorded 2,877 clinical cases of C. auris between 2013 and 2025. Data from the state health department indicates that the steady progression of the fungus is continuing as usual
Those with underlying health conditions are the most vulnerable to severe illness, though healthcare professionals warn that anyone can contract the fungus
Because C. auris typically lives on the skin, it becomes dangerous primarily if it enters the body
“If it gets inside, [patients] get a fever that might drop their blood pressure,” Gehring explained. “Their lab tests will be all over the place towards an infection. And then what we usually do is we’ll start culturing and looking. We’re looking for bacteria. We’re looking for viruses. In the right patients, we’re looking for fungal disease.”
Dr. Gehring also noted that the fungus can survive on inanimate objects for long periods and is typically spread through direct contact
To prevent outbreaks, healthcare facilities rely heavily on strict infection control measures. Dr. Gehring highlighted several key protocols:
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Rigorous use of gowns, gloves, and hand-washing.
- Patient Isolation: Cohorting and isolating infected patients to prevent transmission.
- Intensive Cleaning: Deep cleaning of patient areas and medical equipment, with a strong preference for disposable medical devices whenever possible.
Despite relatively low case counts locally, health officials at both the county and state levels continue to actively monitor the situation
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