7 risk factors of deadly fungus infections identified, new Candida auris research finds

(NEXSTAR) – Researchers with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Florida Health Department are getting a better idea of what leads to clinical cases of Candida auris, a dangerous and drug-resistant fungus that has been rapidly multiplying.

In a new study published this month, the researchers looked at patients who came in contact with the fungus between 2019 and 2023, and identified seven risk factors for infection. They found serious cases were more likely to happen when a patient was reliant on tube feeding, confined to their bed or was unable to be transferred to a different location.

Additionally, people with five or more co-morbid conditions, four or more invasive devices (such as a catheter or an IV) or three or more recent medical procedures were also at a highe