A dangerous drug-resistant fungus known as Candidozyma auris is rapidly spreading among hospitals in Europe and has now reached the UK. Previously limited to isolated cases, this fungus has now proliferated across various continents except Antarctica.
The UK has witnessed a concerning surge in reported cases of C. auris, with 134 cases recorded between November 2024 and April 2025, marking a 23% increase compared to the preceding six months. While this yeast species typically causes mild issues for healthy individuals, it poses a severe threat to those with weakened immune systems, especially if it infiltrates the bloodstream or vital organs.
First discovered in Japan in 2009, C. auris has now been documented in over 40 countries, spreading through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces. Due to its adhesive properties and protein production, this fungus is challenging to eradicate from surfaces and can persist for extended periods.
The rapid spread of C. auris is attributed to its elusive nature, as it can reside on the skin without visible symptoms, enabling transmission prior to detection and facilitating hospital-wide dissemination. Depending on the severity of infection, symptoms can vary from asymptomatic carriage to life-threatening conditions affecting various body parts.
Of significant concern is the ability of C. auris to develop resistance to multiple medications, with some strains globally exhibiting resistance to all available treatments. Medical professionals face challenges in identifying this fungus, as standard tests may mislabel it as common yeasts.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) underscores the escalating global health threat posed by C. auris, emphasizing the importance of stringent infection prevention and control measures, robust hygiene practices, continuous monitoring, and ongoing research to mitigate its spread within healthcare settings.