The The Enigma of Candida auris: A Review on Transmission, Outbreaks, and Infection Control

Sathyakamala  Ravichandran; Mohankumar  Appadurai; Priyadarshini  Shanmugam

Sathyakamala Ravichandran Senior Resident, Department of Microbiology, Pt Madan Mohan Malaviya Hospital, Malviya Nagar, New Delhi, India
Mohankumar Appadurai Research Scholar, Department of Microbiology, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education (CARE), Kelambakkam, Tamil Nadu, India
Priyadarshini Shanmugam Professor & Head, Department of Microbiology, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education (CARE), Kelambakkam, Tamil Nadu, India

Keywords: Candida auris, Bloodstream Infections, Hand Hygiene, Phenotypic Variability

Abstract

Candida auris (C. auris) is a species of pathogenic yeast that has emerged as a global health threat in recent years. It was first identified in 2009 in Japan but has since been reported in more than 40 countries worldwide, with an increasing number of cases and outbreaks. Infections caused by Candida auris are linked to significant mortality rates, particularly in vulnerable populations, such as immunocompromised patients and those in healthcare settings. It’s concerning as it’s resistant to multiple classes of antifungal drugs, complicating treatment. The exact modes of transmission of Candida auris are still not entirely understood, but it can spread through contact with contaminated surfaces, healthcare workers, or other patients. Control measures, such as strict adherence to infection control practices, including hand hygiene, environmental cleaning, and appropriate use of antifungal agents, are essential to control and prevent outbreaks. There is a need for continued surveillance and research to understand the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and optimal treatment of Candida auris infections and to develop new strategies for preventing and controlling its spread. The emergence of Candida auris as a multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen has posed significant challenges to healthcare systems worldwide. This review describes a comprehensive analysis of the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and diagnostic challenges associated with C. auris infections. Furthermore, it explores the mechanisms of antifungal resistance exhibited by this pathogen and discusses current treatment options and infection control measures. Finally, the study outlines future directions for research and intervention strategies to mitigate the spread and impact of C.
auris outbreaks.

How to cite this article:
Ravichandran S, Appadurai M, Shanmugam
P. The Enigma of Candida auris: A Review on
Transmission, Outbreaks, and Infection Control.
J Commun Dis. 2025;57(2):192-201.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202555

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