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Candida auris — SCE Infectious Diseases MCQ

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ModerateFungal InfectionsCandida aurisSCE Infectious Diseases

A microbiology laboratory reports a Candida auris bloodstream infection in a patient on the haematology ward. What distinguishes C. auris from other Candida species from an infection control perspective?

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Correct answer: A — C. auris persists on environmental surfaces and skin, is readily transmitted between patients, and frequently exhibits multidrug resistance — enhanced IPC measures are mandatory

Candida auris is a globally emerging multidrug-resistant yeast with unique IPC challenges: it persists on environmental surfaces for weeks, colonises patient skin, is transmitted between patients via contact, and is frequently resistant to Fluconazole (>90%), often with reduced susceptibility to Amphotericin B and Echinocandins. Enhanced IPC measures (single-room isolation, contact precautions, daily Chlorhexidine body wash, enhanced environmental cleaning with chlorine-based agents, screening of contacts) are mandatory. UKHSA has specific C. auris guidance.

Reference: UKHSA 2024 – Candida auris guidance; ECDC 2024 – C. auris risk assessment