High Alert for Minnesota as Deadly Fungus Spreads Across U.S.

Minnesota is on alert as a deadly drug-resistant fungus spreads across the United States after years of increasing cases nationwide.

The deadly fungus is causing so much concern that the Center for Infectious Disease Research & Policy from the University of Minnesota released a news brief urging medical institutions and policymakers to remain vigilant.

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Understanding Candida Auris in Minnesota

Candida auris is a yeast or fungus that is often drug-resistant, making it difficult to treat. C. auris is known to cause serious infections and can live in infected patients for months. It is also difficult to clean from surfaces, making it easily spreadable.

National Increase in Cases Has MN on High Alert

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the United States has seen a steady increase in cases. In 2023, there were 4,514 new cases, the most since its discovery in 2016. States like New York, New Jersey, Florida, Nevada, and California are hotspots for the deadly fungus, with over 1,000 new cases in each state.

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Minnesota ranks low, with an average of less than 10 cases each year, but officials are monitoring its progress.

Mortality Rate Concerns

Data on the number of deaths caused by a C. auris infection are hard to find, but some studies suggest that the mortality rate can range from 30% to 60%. It can be exceptionally dangerous and deadly if the infection enters the bloodstream.

Due to the high mortality and infection rates, and the difficulty in treating or sanitizing medical facilities from the fungus, medical professionals are concerned about what the future holds for Candida auris.