A new deadly virus, that has swept across Europe and has been recorded in 40 countries, is slowly rising in the UK as health authorities warn hospitals to work to contain the spread
A deadly drug-resistant fungus spreading rapidly across hospitals in Europe has terrifyingly made its way to the UK.
Cases of the Candidozyma auris virus have been increasing and spreading in hospitals. This dangerous fungus, once limited to a small number of isolated cases, has now spread to every continent, except Antarctica.
The UK has seen a worrying increase in the number of recorded cases of C. auris. There were 134 recorded cases of this virus in the UK between November 2024 and April 2025 – which was a 23 per cent increase when compared with the number from the previous six months.
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C. auris is a yeast species and causes mild problems for healthy people, but can be deadly for people with weakened immune systems. The virus is particularly dangerous if it goes into the bloodstream or reaches vital organs.
This virus is particularly dangerous when it breaches a body’s natural defences, as it could cause severe organ infections in more vulnerable people. Around 30 per cent to 60 per cent of people who catch an invasive C. auris infection die, according to the Independent.
This virus was first isolated from the ear of a person in Japan in 2009 but has now been recorded in over 40 countries. It can spread through direct contact with the virus – which can be on infected people or contaminated surfaces.
C. auris unfortunately is particularly hard to remove from surfaces due to proteins it produces, which make it an adhesive. It can also survive for a long time on surfaces.
The virus has unfortunately been spreading quickly because it can be hard to identify. C. auris can be on someone’s skin without presenting any signs, meaning it can be transmitted before it is caught and even spread across hospitals without knowing.
The fugus can present in several ways depending on how severe the infection is. Some people can carry the fungus with no symptoms but others could develop serious infections such as infections in the blood, brain and spinal cord, bones, abdomen, wounds, ears, respiratory tract, and urinary system, according to the UKHSA.
This virus is particularly dangerous as it can cause infected people to develop resistance to multiple medications – some strains globally have developed resistance to all available treatments.
C. auris can also be challenging to identify by medical professionals as standard laboratory tests can misidentify it as more common yeasts.
The UKHSA has revealed the risks of this virus, and said: “C. auris represents a growing global health concern, particularly in healthcare settings where it can spread rapidly and resist treatment and some disinfectants.
“While not yet widespread in England, it is important that we remain aware that C. auris may spread in hospital environments. Through effective infection prevention and control measures, rigorous hygiene practices, ongoing monitoring and continued research, its spread can be minimised.”