Candidozyma auris (C.auris) (Contact)
Date issued: June 2026
Review date: June 2029
Leaflet section: Infection Prevention and Management
PDF: Candidozyma auris (C auris) (Contact).pdf [pdf] 197KB
Infection Prevention and Management Team
Information for patients who have been in contact with someone who is a C.auris carrier or has an infection caused by C.auris
What is C.auris?
C. auris is a type of fungus (yeast).
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It can live on the skin or in the body
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Many people carry it without any symptoms
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Sometimes it can cause an infection, particularly in people who are already unwell
Why have you been given this leaflet?
You have been in contact with someone who has C.auris
This means there is a small chance you may also be carrying the bacteria.
What happens next?
To check whether you are carrying C. auris, we will offer you screening.
This involves:
Taking swabs from your:
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Groin
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Armpit
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Nose
Swabs are usually taken for three days in a row
If needed, we may also take swabs from:
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Wounds
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Medical devices (such as drips or catheters)
Results are usually available within 2-3 days.
What do the results mean?
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Negative result: No further action is needed during this admission
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Positive result: This means you are carrying C. auris
A positive result does not mean you are unwell and will not affect your care.
What happens if you are admitted to hospital again?
If you are readmitted:
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There will be an alert on your medical record
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You will be screened again as a precaution
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Your environment and equipment will be cleaned regularly
You may:
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Be cared for in a single room
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Have screening swabs taken on admission
Visitors may be asked to:
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Clean their hands when entering and leaving
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Wear protective clothing if needed
Important: These measures are routine and will not affect your treatment or care.
How is C.auris spread?
C. auris can spread in healthcare settings through:
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Direct contact with other people
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Hands of healthcare workers or visitors
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Contaminated equipment or surfaces
What does this mean for you and your family?
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Many people carry C. auris without problems
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A positive result does not mean you are unwell
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Good hygiene helps protect you and others
What can you do?
You can help reduce the spread by:
Cleaning your hands regularly:
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After using the toilet
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Before eating or drinking
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Using soap and water or alcohol hand gel
Avoid touching:
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Wounds
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Medical devices (such as drips or catheters)
Does C.auris always need treatment?
No.
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C. auris often lives on the body without causing harm
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This is called colonisation (when a germ is present but not causing illness)
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Treatment is only needed if an infection develops
When should you seek advice?
Speak to a healthcare professional if:
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You feel unwell
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You think you may have an infection
Take any information cards given to you to healthcare appointments.
Other formats
If you need this leaflet in another format such as Braille, large print, high contrast, British Sign Language or translated into another language, contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS):
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01752 439694
