How to protect family members from Candida auris?

Question

Hello doctor,

Our facility just identified Candida auris in three patients and I am freaking out. I am a nursing assistant there and have worked directly with these patients before they were isolated. The infection control nurse swabbed all staff, and my results came back positive for Candida auris colonization. No symptoms yet, but they say I can not work for at least 2 weeks. My husband, 54, is undergoing chemotherapy for lymphoma right now and has a compromised immune system. Could I put him at risk? The hospital gave me a Chlorhexidine wash, but not much other information. One of our patients deteriorated so quickly from this infection, went septic, and died within days. What precautions should I take at home? Should my husband be tested too? Will I always be colonized with Candida auris, or is there a way to eliminate it?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

This situation is very concerning, especially with your husband's compromised immune system. Here is what you can do:

Risk to husband: Yes, Candida auris can pose a risk to immunocompromised individuals, so it is important to take extra precautions to avoid spreading it to them.

Precautions at home:

Hygiene: Continue using Chlorhexidine washes and follow any additional guidance from your infection control team.
Limit contact: Minimize physical contact with your husband, especially if you are handling cleaning or other tasks that might expose him to potential contamination.
Clean environment: Regularly disinfect surfaces and areas where you spend time, especially shared spaces. Wash your hands frequently.
Wear a mask and gloves: If you need to care for your husband, wear a mask and gloves to reduce the risk of transmission.

Testing for husband: It is wise for your husband to get tested, given his weakened immune system. Consult his oncologist or your infection control team to assess if he needs testing and any preventive measures.

Eliminating colonization: Candida auris colonization does not always go away quickly. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. In some cases, antifungal treatment or other interventions may be needed to help eliminate the colonization.

Work restrictions: Adhere to your facility’s protocol and avoid returning to work until cleared, as this will help prevent spreading the infection to others.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.