Identification of individuals infected or colonized with Candida auris is increasing in Massachusetts. Ongoing efforts to contain the spread of C. auris in healthcare settings rely on primary infection control measures and screening of contacts to identify C. auris colonization. DPH is emphasizing the importance of adherence to hand hygiene, appropriate use of transmission-based precautions, and inter-facility communication about a patient’s C. auris status upon transfer. The EPA has created List P, a list of EPA-registered disinfectants effective against C. auris, for cleaning and disinfecting the patient care environment and reusable equipment. List P: Antimicrobial Products Registered with EPA for Claims Against Candida Auris | US EPA
Additionally, as the identification of individuals with infections due to carbapenemase-producing organisms (CPOs) increases, DPH is reminding providers about the availability of expanded antimicrobial susceptibility testing (ExAST) for hard-to-treat infections at their regional partner laboratory, the Wadsworth Center Laboratory in New York.
Resources: