‘Super Bug’ Fungal Infection Targeting 28 States, Including Louisiana

(KMDL-FM) If you work in the medical profession, you know the holidays have been anything but quiet and nowhere close to calm. Louisiana, like many states, is in the throes of a huge flu outbreak. If that wasn't enough, we are now being informed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that, in addition to the flu, there is a major fungal infection that is targeting our state and several others.

The CDC is expressing an extraordinary amount of concern over both the flu and the fungal outbreak. The flu, even though it's been running rampant across many states, and especially in Louisiana, is a medical malady that most of us are familiar with.

READ MORE: Louisiana Hit Hard By Flu - How Bad Is It?

Many of us will get a flu shot to prevent or at least lessen the effects of the virus that causes the disease. We will also get prescription and over-the-counter medications to help us combat some of the symptoms and suffering that go along with the flu.

But most medical professionals will tell you the best way to beat the flu is to not get the flu, and oftentimes that can be accomplished by doing a couple of simple things. One of those is washing your hands. We know that works. The other is avoiding sick people. And the one that most of us don't get to comply with because we have to go to work, is to stay at home and away from others when you're not feeling well.

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What is The Fungal Superbug the CDC Is Issuing Advisories About?

The fungal infection or "superbug" as it's being referred to in many media reports, is known to scientists as Candida auris, it's a yeast or fungus, and it is the catalyst behind many serious infections.

The CDC says the fungus can remain viable on surfaces and even skin for months. It has shown resistance to cleaning and disinfectants. The fungus can also be spread via medical instruments or via person-to-person contact.

In Louisiana, the CDC is reporting 193 cases. If you cross the Sabine River into Texas, the case count jumps to 811. So, the fungus is among us. However, the states with the largest case counts are California and Nevada, respectively.

What Are The Most Common Symptoms of the Fungal Superbug?

The most common symptoms reported with this fungal infection are fever, chills, and feelings of lethargy. It's important to note that these symptoms can be signs of another ailment, but if they do not go away after a short period of time or following antibiotic treatment, the diagnosis could be Candida auris.

READ MORE: Popular Cholesterol Medication Prescribed in Louisiana Recalled

As always, with any questions or concerns about your health or your family's health, you should consult a licensed healthcare practitioner. This fungal infection is very difficult to diagnose, and your doctor might need to run several tests to confirm the treatment protocol that is right for you.

Just to set your mind at ease, the average healthy person really does not need to stress about Candida auris; however, if you do have medical issues or you have been hospitalized for a long period of time, your medical team should consider the facts surrounding the fungus.