Sudden explosion of dangerous fungus Candida auris may be because of climate change, scientists say

Candida auris infections have emerged globally as public health threat in recent years, posing a particular risk in health care settings for people who already have serious medical problems. Scientists say the sudden explosion of the fungus, which was not found in humans anywhere until 2009, may be because of climate change.

The fungal infections can cause severe illness, including bloodstream, wound and respiratory infections. Its mortality rate has been estimated at 30% to 60%.

In 2016, hospitals in New York state identified the rare and dangerous infection that was never before found in the United States. Research laboratories quickly mobilized to review historical specimens and found the fungus had been present in the country since at least 2013.