Deadly Drug-Resistant Superbug Fungus Spreads Across US Healthcare Facilities

A dangerous, drug-resistant yeast known as Candida auris is rapidly spreading across the United States, infecting at least 7,000 people across 28 states in 2025. Medical facilities and nursing homes are currently struggling to gain ground against this "superbug," which health officials warn is becoming increasingly common in healthcare settings.

First identified in 2009 and reported in the U.S. in 2016, the fungus has seen a sharp rise in cases. While only 51 cases were reported in 2016, that number climbed to over 700 by 2020 and has now exploded to over 7,000 nationwide as of late December 2025. Nevada has reported the highest number of infections, while states like Alabama, Tennessee, and Georgia are also seeing significant case counts.

Candida auris is particularly troubling because it can survive on human skin and hard surfaces for months, even after routine cleaning and disinfection. It spreads easily through shared medical equipment and direct person-to-person contact. Because it is resistant to most common antibiotics and antifungal treatments, some experts warn that patients may be left with few options; Melissa Nolan, an epidemiology professor, noted that if a patient is infected with a fully resistant strain, there may be no treatment available to combat it.

The fungus primarily targets patients with weakened immune systems, severe underlying medical conditions, or those requiring invasive medical devices. It can cause deadly infections in the bloodstream, wounds, and ears. However, symptoms are often non-specific—such as fever or chills—making it difficult to distinguish from bacterial infections.

Scientists point to climate change as a contributing factor to this surge. As the world warms, fungi may adapt to higher temperatures, eventually reaching a "temperature barrier" that allows them to survive and thrive within the human body.

Health departments are now urging sustained vigilance and strict adherence to CDC containment strategies. Stopping the spread will require intense coordination across healthcare systems, timely reporting, and rigorous infection control practices to protect the most vulnerable populations in long-term care facilities.

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🔖 Sources

Superbug Fungus Candida Auris Is Spreading In The U.S., Check Where Cases Are Rising Fastest?

Candida Auris: Killer Fungus Spreads Across 27 States In US | Check Symptoms, Treatment

Superbug hits 28 states, including Alabama: Where the deadly fungus is spreading

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Keywords: drug-resistant superbug fungus

drug-resistant superbug fungus

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