Valley health officials monitoring cases of deadly fungus infection | NYGazet

Health officials in the Rio Grande Valley are monitoring a rise in cases of Candida auris, a potentially deadly, drug-resistant fungus. While it is not a widespread threat to the general public, it poses a serious risk to vulnerable patients in hospitals and nursing homes. The Hidalgo County Health Department has reported around 150 confirmed cases this year, and Cameron County has seen 40 cases, with officials expecting the number to increase. The fungus can live on surfaces and spreads through direct contact, making proper disinfection and isolation of patients with confirmed cases crucial for prevention. Symptoms can include fever, chills, and rash that do not improve with antibiotics.

Health officials across the Rio Grande Valley said they are keeping an eye on the rising cases of a potentially deadly fungus. Officials said the fungus — known as Candida Auris — is not a current risk to the public, but it can be deadly for patients... [1806 chars]