Emerging global HAI-AMR issue: Candida auris

PHAC communication

PHAC has recently learned of a public health alert from US CDC in relation to the global emergence of invasive infections caused by the multidrug-resistant yeast organism, Candida auris. While C. auris is not common, it can cause invasive infections associated with high mortality and has also been known to cause outbreaks in healthcare facilities.  

Information available to date indicates that cases of C. auris have occurred in at least nine countries including Japan, Korea, India, Pakistan, Kuwait, South Africa, Venezuela, Colombia, and (most recently) the United Kingdom.

To date, the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has not received notification of any Canadian cases of C. auris infection.

For further information on C. Auris, please refer to the US CDC’s publication, “Clinical Alert to U.S. Healthcare Facilities,” issued on 27 June 2013,
http://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/candidiasis/candida-auris-alert.html

This message is being shared with PHAC’s public health partners across Canada to make you aware of this important emerging AMR issue with potential implications for healthcare facilities.  If you do become aware of any confirmed cases, please report these to PHAC at CARSS-SCSRA@phac-aspc.gc.ca.