Deadly, drug-resistant fungus spread in NC & 26 other states. Who’s at risk?
A dangerous, drug-resistant fungus sickened more than 7,000 people across 27 states last year, including cases in North Carolina, according to federal data.
The fungus, Candida auris, is classified as an “emerging infectious disease” after health officials recorded a steady rise in infections beginning in 2019, according to Cleveland Clinic.
As of Saturday, Dec. 20 (the latest data available), North Carolina had reported 21 cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Here’s what you need to know.
What is Candida auris, and how do people get it?
Candida auris is a fast-spreading yeast that primarily affects patients in healthcare settings, especially those with serious medical conditions or invasive devices.
The CDC says it can cause infections ranging from skin issues to life-threatening bloodstream illness. It is difficult to treat because it resists common antifungal drugs.
It spreads through contaminated surfaces and can live on the body without symptoms, though healthy visitors and providers are not considered at risk.
What are the symptoms of Candida auris?
Symptoms of Candida auris aren’t always present, but when they do appear, they can include the following, according to the Cleveland Clinic:
- Ear infections
- Wound infections
- Urinary tract infections
- Blood infections that spread to the rest of the body
How can it be prevented?
To help stop the spread of Candida auris, the CDC advises healthcare providers to take the following precautions:
- Clean hands frequently with alcohol-based sanitizer
- Isolate patients with C. auris
- Constantly disinfect patients’ rooms
- Wear gloves and gowns when delivering care
- Clean visitors’ hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer
Which other states have reported cases of Candida auris?
These are all the states where the infection has spread, according to Dec. 20 CDC data:
- Pennsylvania
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Michigan
- Ohio
- Wisconsin
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Delaware
- Georgia
- Maryland
- North Carolina
- Virginia
- West Virginia
- Kentucky
- Mississippi
- Tennessee
- Louisiana
- Texas
- Arizona
- Colorado
- Montana
- Nevada
- Utah
- Wyoming
- California
- Oregon
Inspired by a story from the Sun Herald in Mississippi.
This story was originally published January 21, 2026 at 2:18 PM with the headline "Deadly, drug-resistant fungus spread in NC & 26 other states. Who’s at risk?."
