Candida Auris
Overview
Candida auris is a type of fungus (yeast) that can live on the skin and inside the body without causing harm in healthy people. In people who are already ill, it can cause serious infections in the bloodstream, wounds, or other parts of the body. It is concerning because it often does not respond to the usual antifungal medicines and can spread easily in healthcare settings.
Key facts
- Candida auris can cause severe infections in people with weakened immune systems.
- It is often resistant to many antifungal medicines, which makes treatment harder.
- Good hand hygiene and infection control are the main ways to stop it from spreading.
No, Candida auris is uncommon in the general population. It mostly affects people in hospitals and long-term care facilities, especially those who are already very ill.
It mainly affects people who are already sick, such as hospital patients, people in nursing homes, and people with medical devices like catheters or breathing tubes. Healthy people rarely get infected.
Symptoms
- Difficulty breathing
- A very high or very low temperature with shaking or chills
- Confusion or strange behaviour
- Cold, pale, or mottled skin
- A rapid heartbeat or feeling of severe illness
- ⚠A persistent fever that does not go away
- ⚠A wound that becomes red, hot, swollen, or very painful
- ⚠Generally feeling unwell and getting worse over hours or days
Common symptoms
- Fever and chills that do not improve with antibiotics
- Fatigue and weakness
- Signs of a bloodstream infection, such as low blood pressure or a rapid heartbeat
- Redness, swelling, or pain around a wound or medical device
Symptoms in children
- Fever
- Poor feeding or loss of appetite
- Unusual irritability or sleepiness
- These symptoms can also be caused by many other illnesses, so seek medical advice if you are concerned.
Symptoms in older adults
- Confusion or sudden change in behaviour
- Drowsiness or difficulty waking
- Fever or low body temperature
- Contact a doctor promptly if an older adult has these signs.
Causes
Main causes
- The fungus can live on skin and surfaces for a long time.
- It spreads through direct contact with contaminated skin, surfaces, or medical equipment.
- It is easily transmitted in hospitals and care facilities, especially among vulnerable patients.
Risk factors
- Being a patient in a hospital or long-term care facility
- Having a weakened immune system
- Having medical devices such as catheters, feeding tubes, or breathing machines
- Recent surgery
- Long-term use of antibiotics or antifungal medicines
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- If you have a fever that does not go away
- If an existing wound becomes red, swollen, or painful
- If you have been in a healthcare facility and develop unexpected symptoms
Book a routine appointment if:
- If you are worried about your risk of Candida auris
- If you have symptoms that are not improving
Diagnosis
A doctor will take a sample from the area that might be infected, such as blood, urine, or a wound swab, and send it to a laboratory to check for Candida auris.
Tests that may be done
- Blood culture
- Urine culture
- Swab of a wound or skin
- Laboratory testing to identify the fungus and see which antifungal medicines might work
What to expect at your appointment
Test results can take a few days. While waiting, doctors may start treatment based on your symptoms. If you are in hospital, infection control measures may be put in place to prevent spreading the fungus.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type and location of the infection, and whether the fungus is resistant to certain medicines. Doctors will choose the most effective option based on laboratory results. If the fungus is only on the skin and not causing illness, treatment may not be needed at all.
Self-care at home
- Follow your healthcare team’s advice about wound care.
- Keep your hands clean with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub.
- Attend all follow-up appointments.
- Rest and stay hydrated if you feel unwell.
Medical treatments
Antifungal medicines are the main treatment. Because Candida auris can be resistant to several types, doctors will use laboratory tests to pick the most appropriate medicine, which may be given by mouth or directly into a vein. Sometimes a combination of medicines is used. In severe cases, treatment may continue for weeks or months, and infected medical devices may need to be removed.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is not usually needed for Candida auris infection, but if an infected device cannot be cleared, it may need to be removed.
Living with this condition
If you have been diagnosed with Candida auris, follow your doctor's instructions, keep any wounds clean, and practice good hand hygiene. You may be asked to take extra precautions, such as using separate towels or cleaning equipment, especially if you live in a care facility.
Lifestyle tips
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or use hand sanitiser.
- Let healthcare staff know about your infection so they can take precautions.
- Keep your skin healthy and intact to reduce the chance of infection.
- Tell your doctor about your infection before any hospital stay or procedure.
Diet and exercise
No special diet is needed, but eating a balanced, nutritious diet and staying active as much as your health allows can support your immune system. Follow any dietary advice from your healthcare team if you have other conditions.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Living with a serious infection can feel worrying or isolating. It is normal to feel anxious or low. Talking to a counsellor, a spiritual adviser, or a trusted friend can help. If you are struggling, ask your healthcare team for support.
Prevention
Good infection control is the best way to prevent Candida auris. This includes frequent hand hygiene, proper cleaning of surfaces and equipment, and isolating affected patients in healthcare settings when needed. For everyone, washing hands regularly is key.
Vaccines
There is currently no vaccine to prevent Candida auris. Prevention relies on good hygiene and infection control.
Screening programmes
Screening for Candida auris is usually only done in hospitals or care homes where an outbreak is being managed. It is not recommended for the general public.
Complications
If left untreated
- The infection can spread to the bloodstream, causing a life-threatening reaction called sepsis.
- It can infect the heart, brain, or other internal organs.
- In people with very weak immune systems, it can lead to organ failure and death.
Long-term outlook
With early detection and the right treatment, many people recover from Candida auris, especially if their immune system is not severely weakened. The fungus can be difficult to treat because of resistance, but doctors have several options and research is ongoing. Being colonised (having the fungus on your skin without illness) does not mean you will get sick.
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Sources and guidance
Sources used for this article include the references listed below.
Last updated: October 20, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.
Guidance may differ by country or region. Confirm local recommendations with a qualified healthcare provider.