Tag

Fungal Infections

All articles tagged with #fungal infections

Drug-Resistant Candida Auris Spreads Across the U.S., Targeting the Vulnerable
health18 days ago

Drug-Resistant Candida Auris Spreads Across the U.S., Targeting the Vulnerable

A drug-resistant fungus, Candida auris, is spreading in the United States with 3,437 clinical cases this year across 27 states (and 6,304 in 2024). It mainly threatens patients with severe underlying illnesses and invasive devices, and can be carried as colonization without symptoms. Transmission occurs via direct contact or contaminated equipment, not casual contact or airborne spread. Increased screening and better detection mean more cases are found, but eradicating the fungus is unlikely; strict cleaning and infection-control practices in hospitals and long-term care facilities can reduce spread.

Hospitals on alert as Candida auris spreads and resists treatment
health22 days ago

Hospitals on alert as Candida auris spreads and resists treatment

Candida auris, a drug-resistant yeast that can persist on surfaces, is spreading in U.S. healthcare facilities. The CDC reported 3,437 clinical cases across 27 states as of July 25, 2026, with last year totaling 4,290, highlighting it as a critical public health threat. It can colonize skin or cause serious infections such as bloodstream infections that may lead to sepsis, especially in patients with underlying conditions. Transmission occurs through contact with contaminated objects and people, and it can resist common cleaning agents, complicating elimination in hospitals and nursing facilities. Detection has increased due to targeted screening, but preventing spread relies on strict infection-control measures, diligent environmental cleaning, hand hygiene, and isolating affected patients; treatment options are limited and depend on the strain.

Candida auris detected across 27 states: key facts for the public
health23 days ago

Candida auris detected across 27 states: key facts for the public

As of the week ending July 25, 2026, 3,437 cases of Candida auris have been identified across 27 states (California leading with 873, followed by Texas with 433 and Tennessee with 283), and the number of cases continues to rise each year, though the rate of increase has slowed since 2022. C. auris is a drug‑resistant yeast that can cause infections ranging from skin infections to life-threatening bloodstream infections in very ill patients in healthcare settings, and it can persist on surfaces. Many strains are resistant to fluconazole, with some showing resistance to amphotericin B and echinocandins, and the mortality rate is estimated between 30% and 60%. Those most at risk include immunocompromised individuals and patients with invasive devices in hospitals or nursing homes.

Candida auris cases reach 3,130 in 23 states, CDC reports
health23 days ago

Candida auris cases reach 3,130 in 23 states, CDC reports

The CDC reports 3,130 cases of Candida auris across 23 states as of July 18, with Texas leading (706), followed by Michigan (503) and Illinois (366). While yearly case counts rise, the growth rate is slowing. C. auris is a yeast that can cause severe, hard‑to‑treat infections in very ill patients in healthcare settings and can persist on surfaces for long periods. Many strains are resistant to common antifungals; echinocandins are usually effective, though resistance varies. Mortality is estimated at 30%–60%, but deaths are often complicated by underlying illnesses.

New Vaccine Promises Defense Against Deadly Fungal Infections
health11 months ago

New Vaccine Promises Defense Against Deadly Fungal Infections

Researchers at the University of Georgia are developing a vaccine called NXT-2 that shows promise in preventing and reducing the severity of fungal infections like Candida albicans, which causes yeast infections. The vaccine has demonstrated effectiveness in mice by generating a strong immune response and reducing fungal levels and inflammation, with plans to test it in women with recurrent yeast infections. This could lead to a broader, more effective treatment option for fungal infections that are increasingly resistant to current therapies.

Innovative Vaccine Promises Broad Protection Against Fungal Infections
health1 year ago

Innovative Vaccine Promises Broad Protection Against Fungal Infections

Scientists at the University of Georgia have developed an experimental vaccine, NXT-2, that shows promise in protecting against various fungal infections, including yeast infections like vulvovaginal candidiasis. The vaccine has demonstrated effectiveness in mice and is planned for human trials, aiming to provide a long-term solution to fungal diseases, especially for women suffering recurrent infections and immunocompromised individuals. If successful, it could be a significant advancement in fungal infection prevention.

New Fungal STI Detected in MSM Community
health1 year ago

New Fungal STI Detected in MSM Community

A new sexually transmitted fungal infection caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype VII (TMVII) has been identified in four men in New York City, all of whom are men who have sex with men (MSM). The infection, which can be mistaken for eczema or psoriasis, is spread through direct skin contact and has been reported in Europe as well. All patients were successfully treated with antifungals. Experts emphasize the need for awareness, better testing, and monitoring of TMVII, as well as further research on treatment and transmission.

First Sexually Transmitted Ringworm Case Reported in U.S.
health2 years ago

First Sexually Transmitted Ringworm Case Reported in U.S.

The first U.S. case of a rare sexually transmitted ringworm caused by the fungus Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII has been reported in a New York City man. The infection, which took over four months to heal, highlights the growing issue of antifungal resistance. While not widespread, doctors advise seeking medical attention for persistent rashes, especially in the groin area.

"Sexually Transmitted Drug-Resistant Ringworm Detected in U.S."
health2 years ago

"Sexually Transmitted Drug-Resistant Ringworm Detected in U.S."

The first U.S. case of a rare sexually transmitted ringworm caused by the fungus Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII has been reported. The infection, which was contracted by a New York City man in his 30s, took over four months to treat with various antifungal medications. While not widespread, the case highlights the growing issue of antifungal resistance and the need for awareness among clinicians and the public.

"Newly Discovered Yeast Offers Hope for Preventing Deadly Fungal Infections"
health-and-science2 years ago

"Newly Discovered Yeast Offers Hope for Preventing Deadly Fungal Infections"

Scientists have discovered a new yeast species, Kazachstania weizmannii, in the guts of mice and humans that appears to combat the potentially dangerous yeast, Candida albicans, which can cause invasive fungal infections. The new yeast has shown promise in keeping C. albicans in check, particularly in immunodeficient mice, by out-competing it for gut occupancy and reducing the spread of invasive candidiasis. This finding could lead to potential therapeutic applications for managing human diseases caused by C. albicans. Further research is needed to understand the implications of this discovery for human health.

"Rising Concern: Spread of Valley Fever and Global Fungal Outbreak"
health2 years ago

"Rising Concern: Spread of Valley Fever and Global Fungal Outbreak"

Fungal infections are a growing threat, causing an estimated 1.7 million deaths annually and posing challenges due to climate change, population growth, and drug resistance. These infections range from athletes' foot to more severe respiratory illnesses, with diagnoses often delayed due to their resemblance to other illnesses. The lack of anti-fungal vaccines and limited treatments has prompted the WHO to prioritize fungal pathogens, urging research into treatments. With the convergence of longer life spans and a warming planet, the risk of fungal infections is increasing. Efforts are underway to develop a vaccine for Valley fever, with potential implications for both humans and pets, but the urgency to combat this escalating threat is clear.

"Uncovering the Next Global Pandemic: Killer Fungi Experts on the Frontline"
health-research2 years ago

"Uncovering the Next Global Pandemic: Killer Fungi Experts on the Frontline"

Scientists at Australia's National Mycological Reference Center are working to prevent the next global pandemic by identifying and researching killer fungi, including the yeast-like fungus Candida auris, which poses a critical threat to public health due to its resistance to drugs. The lack of antifungal treatments has led to a slow-moving fungal pandemic, with the WHO labeling four fungal pathogens as posing a critical threat. The surge of Candida auris infections globally has prompted researchers to develop rapid screening tests and treatments to prevent its spread and potential for another pandemic.