A drug-resistant fungus, Candida auris, poses a growing threat in the United States, causing serious infections. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report its presence in at least 27 states this year alone.
A CDC map highlights several states with hundreds of cases, alarming health officials. As of July 25, more than 3,400 clinical cases have been detected, affecting hospitals and nursing homes. The fungus resists multiple antifungal medications, making it a tough challenge for healthcare settings caring for vulnerable patients.
While healthy individuals face low risk, those with weakened immune systems, invasive medical devices, or specific health conditions are more susceptible to infections. The CDC regards Candida auris as a significant public health threat, steadily increasing in the U.S.
What Is Candida Auris?
Candida auris is a yeast species capable of causing critical infections. Identified in 2009, the fungus evoked concern due to its resistance to several antifungal drugs. It can lead to various illnesses, from skin infections to severe bloodstream infections in vulnerable patients. The CDC considers it urgent, partnering with hospitals and agencies to contain its spread.
How Common Is Candida Auris?
Candida auris infections surged over the decade in the U.S., though still uncommon among the general population. In 2024, 6,304 cases emerged, indicative of an upward trend. The fungus’ reach has expanded in healthcare facilities, with 4,290 cases reported in 2025, and 3,437 cases found this year across 27 states.
- States with infections include: Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
Among these, California reported the highest number of cases, 873, followed by Texas with 433. Most cases were in hospitals and care facilities for fragile patients. Experts highlight that healthy individuals generally have a low infection risk, with the spread centering on those with significant health issues.
How Is Candida Auris Contracted?
Transmission of C. auris occurs mainly via contact with contaminated surfaces or medical equipment, or through infected patients in healthcare environments. The fungus can persist on surfaces such as bed rails and medical devices, increasing the risk of patient-to-patient transfer without strict infection control.
Those at greatest risk include seriously ill individuals or those needing complex medical care. The fungus can invade through devices like ventilators, feeding tubes, or catheters, causing invasive infections. Notably, asymptomatic carriers can spread it, complicating outbreak control in institutions.