A deadly and often drug-resistant fungus is infecting more than 6,600 people in more than half of the United States, with Texas the state with the highest number of cases, according to the most recent data.
The first occurrence of Candida auris in the United States was recorded in 2016. Since then, the number of cases identified annually has grown steadily. As of July 25, the accumulated total was 6,669 records across the country. This data represents a lower volume than the 7,779 cases reported in the same period of the previous year.
Texas remained the state with the most registrations as of July 25, reaching 1,148. By comparison, the year before, the Lone Star state had reported 1,156 cases at the same time.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) establishes two distinct categories to classify occurrences of this fungal infection.
The first category covers clinical cases, where individuals exhibit symptoms and test positive for the disease after signs appear. The second type refers to people who are tested for the infection but do not develop the disease, with the aim of checking whether they have been colonized by the parasite.
In data released on July 25, Texas recorded the highest count of traced cases, with 715, and the second highest count of clinical cases, with 433. California, in turn, led the country in clinical cases, with 873, but reported no traced cases.
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) released updated numbers on August 6, 2026, indicating that, as of August 5, 2026, 438 clinical cases and 743 screening-detected cases had been identified in the state.
Understanding Candida auris and its method of spread
Candida auris is a fungal infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that some patients can develop severe and, in some cases, fatal infections caused by this yeast. However, other patients may be colonized by the fungus without showing symptoms. The spread of infection is particularly easy in healthcare settings.
This fungus can be transmitted through objects and surfaces, both by sick individuals and by those who do not show symptoms. Candida auris’ ability to survive for long periods on surfaces is a critical factor in its spread, according to the CDC.
The Cleveland Clinic points out that people with immune systems already weakened by underlying health conditions are at increased risk of contracting C. auris infection. Those who use medical devices such as breathing tubes, central venous catheters, feeding tubes, or other catheters are more likely to allow the fungus to enter the body.
Individuals who have been hospitalized for prolonged periods or who reside in long-term care facilities also face an increased risk of developing Candida auris infection.
To help prevent the spread of C. auris, the CDC recommends frequent hand washing and the use of alcohol-based sanitizers. Isolating infected people is also an important measure to contain the spread.
In hospital and healthcare environments, professionals can use specific disinfectants, in addition to wearing gloves and aprons, to effectively contain the spread of the fungus.