Despite upgraded infection control measures,  the pandemic may provide “ideal conditions” for outbreaks of C. auris in hospital ICUs, according to an article on the Infection Control Today website.

Both C. auris and SARS-CoV-2 have been found on hospital surfaces, including air conditioner ducts, windows, and hospital floors. C. auris can survive on a wide range of surfaces, both dry and moist, for up to 14 days. 

Disinfectants with sporicidal activity and hydrogen peroxide-based products are the most successful, but the persistence of C. auris in the hospital environment suggests “an involvement of the interaction between the pathogen and surfaces and the length of exposure to disinfectants.”

To control the fungus before it reaches vulnerable patients; the CDC recommends placing high-risk patients on preemptive contact precautions while awaiting screening results. 

A report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said the number of Candida auris cases increased from 836 on Aug. 31 to 941 on Oct. 31, 2019, according to an article. on the Becker's Clinical Leadership and Infection Control website.

Read the full Infection Control Today article.