CDC Issues Warning as Deadly Fungal Superbug Spreads Rapidly in New York

A rare and potentially fatal fungal infection is on the rise across the U.S., with New York State reporting the highest number of cases in the nation. Health authorities are sounding the alarm over the continued surge of Candida auris, a drug-resistant pathogen that poses a serious risk to vulnerable populations.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have classified Candida auris as a serious public health concern. While it typically does not pose a threat to individuals with strong immune systems, it can be life-threatening for hospitalized patients, particularly those with weakened immune defenses.

The fungus, a type of yeast, spreads quickly in healthcare environments and is notoriously difficult to treat due to its resistance to common antifungal medications. It can infect the bloodstream, open wounds and the ear canal, often resulting in severe complications.

“This fungus is exceptionally resilient,” the CDC warned. “It can survive on surfaces, resist standard treatments, and lead to outbreaks in hospitals and long-term care facilities. Infections can be deadly, especially when treatment options are limited.”

Since 2016, New York has recorded more confirmed cases of Candida auris than any other U.S. state. CDC data reveals that from 2016 through 2023, New York saw 1,795 confirmed infections.

The Empire State reported 412 cases in 2023 followed by another 460 in 2024. So far in 2025, nearly 150 new cases have already been documented according to the New York State Department of Health.

Nationwide, over 10,000 cases have been reported with at least 38 states confirming infections as of this year.

Health experts are particularly concerned about the fungus's ability to resist all three major classes of antifungal drugs making treatment significantly more complicated. The New York State Department of Health has echoed federal warnings, noting that some strains have shown resistance to every standard option available.

The CDC has categorized Candida auris as an “urgent threat,” emphasizing the importance of early detection, infection control measures, and responsible use of antifungal medications to prevent further spread.

The fungus has a mortality rate of 60%.

CDC Issues Warning as Deadly Fungal Superbug Spreads Rapidly in New York