TUCSON (KVOA) — 18 deaths in Maricopa County and 1 death in Cochise County, according to preliminary Arizona Department of Health data. In Pima County, he has had two cases in the past two years of infection, one in 2022 and one in this year.

How does someone become infected with Candida auris fungi?

Dr. Mariana C. Singletary says there are several ways to contract a Candida auris fungal infection. “One is the clinical case, which is mainly environmental and can be transmitted from person to person. People with cancer, bedridden people who don’t move much, etc.”

Singletary explains that the most important thing to remember about infection prevention is washing your hands.

“This is for health care workers and people visiting relatives in the hospital. Most of the time patients don’t do these things, but if you visit someone in the hospital.” We suggest doing what your healthcare provider tells you to do.

Sean Phillips, CEO of Canyon Vista Medical Center in Sierra Vista, said they are always looking for infections, viruses, bacteria, and fungal infections such as Candida auris.

“That’s something we’re always on the alert for, always on the alert for, on alert. We’re really close to each other. I can call Benson Hospital, Wilcox says we We’re calling everyone, and we’re joining these groups to try to identify them quickly, understand their sources, and control them as much as possible.”

Phillips added that keeping the facility clean is very important. “We make sure they comply with the code. We partner with domestic companies to ensure that cleaning is done. It’s really important in hospitals and making sure that the cleaning and sterilization procedures are in compliance.”