Candida auris
Issue: August 2024
Review: August 2026
Ref.: A-634/HD/Infection Control/Candida auris
PDF Version: Candida auris.pdf[pdf] 182KB
Candida auris (C. auris)
What is Candida auris?
Candida is a family of fungi (yeasts) that live on the skin and inside the human body. C. auris is much less common than other types of Candida such as Candida albicans which can cause yeast infections (thrush).
What happens whilst I am in hospital?
We will routinely put isolation measures in place as a precaution every time you are admitted to hospital, usually in a single room, ideally with toilet facilities.
Staff will wear gloves and aprons to give care.
Accommodating you in a single room helps to prevent spread.
It is important that you wash your hands frequently, especially after going to the toilet. You should avoid touching any medical devices (for example, urinary catheter tubes or intravenous drips) particularly at the point where it is inserted into the body or skin.
Your room and dedicated equipment will be cleaned.
How is Candida auris spread?
Candida auris appears to be transmitted from person-to-person in hospitals. This is most likely due to a number of factors; Candida auris is difficult to clear completely from the environment and it is easy to pick up on clothes, equipment, and hands.
How can we stop the spread?
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The simplest most effective measure in preventing the spread is cleaning hands using water and soap or alcohol gel
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We are happy for you to ask staff whether they have washed their hands
Can I have visitors?
Visitors should wash their hands with water and soap before and after touching patients or any items around the bedside. Visitors may also be asked to wear a plastic apron and gloves.
What about when I go home?
Patients diagnosed with a C. auris infection will be treated with antifungal agents before being discharged. No special treatment is required for patients found to be carrying Candida auris. However, patients who know they are, or have been, a carrier should inform hospital staff on re-admission.
Further Information
If you would like any further information please speak to a member of staff on your ward, who may contact the Infection Prevention Management Team for you.
If you are readmitted to hospital
As you have tested positive to Candida auris there will be an Alert on your notes to identify that you are a carrier of Candida auris.
Your General Practitioner will also be informed of the result.
Healthcare workers should be informed of the alert on your record as this will help with the choice of antibiotics if required.
We will routinely put isolation measures in place as a precaution every time you are admitted to Hospital. This will make sure that you receive the best care to prevent the spread of Candida auris and reduce the risk to you.
The Infection Prevention and Management team will review if any further Candida auris screening will need to be undertaken whilst you are in Hospital.
A positive Candida auris result will not hinder your care in any way.
Contact details
Infection Prevention and Management Team
01752 432115
