Outbreak of Candidozyma auris: a challenge for the infection control team.

Abstract

Between March 15 and April 5, 2025, an outbreak of Candidozyma auris, a multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen, was detected in the intensive care unit of a tertiary care center in Thiruvananthapuram, India. Five patients were affected-three with bloodstream infections and two with asymptomatic colonization. Interventions included patient screening, cohorting, enhanced hand hygiene, environmental cleaning, and disinfection of shared equipment. C. auris was identified using MALDI-TOF, but antifungal susceptibility testing could not be performed. The probable index case was a colonized patient with prolonged fluconazole exposure. Lapses in hand hygiene were the likely mode of transmission; environmental cultures were negative. No new cases occurred two months after implementation of infection control measures. The outbreak highlights the need for early species-level identification of non-albicans Candida, improved laboratory capacity, regular staff training, and strict infection control practices. It underscores the importance of preparedness and rapid response to fungal threats in critical care settings.