TRENDING WELLNESS TOPIC: FUNGAL INFECTIONS

What is the problem?

Fungal infections usually affect skin, hair, nails, or mucous membranes, but they can also infect the lungs or other parts of the body. Those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for fungal infections. Many fungal diseases go undiagnosed, but it is estimated that more than 75,000 hospitalizations and nearly 9 million outpatient visits occur every year for fungal diseases. In recent months, a drug-resistant and deadly fungal infection called Candida auris has been spreading at an alarming rate in United States in health care facilities. It has mainly adversely affected people with weakened immune systems. Some strains of this fungus resist all classes of antifungals used to fight it. It is important for healthcare professionals to know how to detect and prevent the spread of fungal infections. 

Learning Objectives

1. Review the current epidemiology of major fungal threats in the United States
2. Evaluate how fungal pathogens impact the healthcare system
3. Recognize strategies to prevent fungal infections

CLICK HERE to download a PDF file featuring information gaps, potential needs, and references for this topic.

If your medical staff needs an update on preventing and treating fungal infections, consider contacting our office to book a speaker at 877-505-4777 or info@speakersnetwork.com.

REFERENCES

https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/cdc-and-fungal/burden.html

https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2023/p0320-cauris.html

https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/candida-auris/index.html

https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/M22-3469