ECDC: Dangerous Fungus Candidozyma auris Spreads in Europe, Cases in Cyprus

According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), the fungus Candidozyma auris is spreading in European hospitals, posing a serious threat to patients.

Between 2013 and 2023, 4,012 cases were reported in the EU/EEA, with the highest number of cases recorded in Spain, Greece, Italy, Romania, and Germany. In 2023, 1,346 cases were reported. Recent cases have been reported in Cyprus, France, and Germany.

C. auris mainly spreads in healthcare facilities and is resistant to antifungal drugs, causing severe infections in patients. Dr. Diamantis Plachouras of the ECDC emphasized the need for early detection and coordinated infection control. Despite the increase in cases, few countries have a national surveillance system and prevention guidelines.