Arizona sees surge in ‘Superbug’ fungus cases, CDC data shows - AZ Family
Arizona has reported a 30% increase in cases of the drug-resistant fungus Candida auris compared to the previous year. The CDC warns that the yeast spreads rapidly in healthcare settings and is difficult to treat.
Why it matters
The rise of drug-resistant pathogens in healthcare facilities poses a significant public health challenge and highlights the need for improved screening and infection control.
PHOENIX (AZFamily) — Arizona is seeing a significant rise in cases of a drug-resistant fungus that can cause serious or life-threatening illness, according to new CDC data.
The fungus, known as Candida auris, is a type of yeast that spreads quickly among patients in healthcare settings such as nursing homes, hospitals and other healthcare facilities.
The state recorded 171 cases year-to-date in 2026, up from 133 cases during the same period in 2025, a nearly 30% increase.
C. auris is a drug-resistant yeast that poses a particular threat in healthcare environments. It can spread rapidly between patients and is difficult to eliminate from surfaces and medical equipment.
The CDC is actively tracking the infection nationwide, with more than half of U.S. states now reporting cases. Arizona is among them — and its numbers are climbing.
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