It is about the fungus Candida auris, which the World Health Organization (WHO) has included in the list of pathogens posing a critical threat.

Here is a detailed analysis of the situation, formatted as a popular science article.

Superbug Candida auris: An Invisible Pandemic Gaining Strength in Europe

The term “superbug” refers to the pathogenic yeast fungus Candida auris, which shows a worrying resistance to most existing antifungal drugs. Since its first description in 2009 (isolated from a patient's earwax in Japan, hence the name “auris” — ear), this microorganism has rapidly spread around the world, becoming one of the most dangerous hospital-acquired infections. In Europe, with its dense population and active migration flows, outbreaks of C. auris are becoming more frequent, causing concern among epidemiologists and practicing physicians.

Unique danger and resistance of the pathogen

The main feature of Candida auris, making it a “superbug,” is its multiple drug resistance. Many strains show resistance to three main classes of antifungal drugs (azoles, echinocandins, and polyenes), which makes treatment of the infection extremely difficult and sometimes impossible. In addition, the fungus is extremely resilient in the external environment. Unlike its more well-known relative Candida albicans, C. auris can persist on surfaces in hospital rooms (furniture, equipment, walls) for a long time, is resistant to the action of many disinfectants based on quaternary ammonium compounds, and can be transmitted not only from person to person but also through contaminated objects.

High-risk groups and clinical picture

For a healthy person with an intact immune system, Candida auris generally does not pose a serious threat. The main risk group consists of critically ill patients in hospitals:

• Patients in intensive care units and intensive care units.

• People with weakened immunity (after chemotherapy, organ transplantation, with HIV).

• Patients with multiple catheters or on artificial ventilation.

• Patients with chronic diseases, such as diabetes.

The fungus can cause invasive infections, including candidemia (blood infection), wound infections, and otitis. The mortality rate for invasive infections caused by C. auris is estimated to be from 30% to 60%, however, it is important to note that these figures are largely related to the severity of the underlying disease in affected patients.

Causes of rapid spread in Europe

The spread of the “superbug” across the European continent is due to several interrelated factors. The key role is played by global travel and migration, which facilitate the asymptomatic transmission of the pathogen from regions where it is endemic. Inadequate methods of infectious control in some medical institutions, especially under conditions of overload, create ideal conditions for outbreaks. Moreover, the widespread and sometimes unjustified use of antifungal drugs in medicine and agriculture creates selective pressure, favoring the survival and reproduction of those strains that have resistance.

Countermeasures and containment strategies

The fight against Candida auris requires a comprehensive approach at both national and international levels. The containment strategy includes:

1. Strengthening epidemiological surveillance: Rapid detection and isolation of infected or colonized patients.

2. Strict infection control: Use of disinfectants with proven effectiveness against C. auris (e.g., based on chlorine), thorough cleaning of rooms and equipment.

3. Screening of patients: Conducting tests on patients from high-risk groups or from regions with registered outbreaks.

4. Development of new drugs: Investments in research and the creation of new classes of antifungal agents to which the pathogen has no resistance.

Thus, the spread of Candida auris in Europe represents a silent but extremely dangerous epidemic, challenging health systems. Success in combating it will depend on coordinated actions, adequate funding, and strict adherence to infection safety protocols to prevent hospitals from becoming hotspots of deadly infections.

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