Nancy Hu’s Case Study on C. Auris Outbreak, Brooklyn, NY

Brooklyn, New York, experienced an outbreak of Candida auris (C. auris)—a multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen—in 2019. The fungus targets those with weakened immune systems, making it particularly deadly to those with comorbidities. C. auris infections can be difficult to treat, causing severe public health challenges globally.

In this case study, Hu examines the obstacles to managing the 2019 C. auris outbreak and the complications that still exist today, including a lack of transparency within medical centers during outbreaks and the rise of drug-resistant pathogens. Hu suggests more precise guidelines on antimicrobial prescriptions, enhancing global surveillance of drug-resistant infections, and more to address the public health issue.