Candidozyma auris: Implications for Infection Prevention and Control in the Management of This Resilient Biofilm Former

Candidozyma auris (formerly Candida auris) is now recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a critical priority pathogen. Not only does it exhibit multidrug resistant properties, but also has the intrinsic capacity to form adherent biofilm communities in the hospital setting that impact and negatively influence clinical management. Its biological properties are primed to maintain its population within harsh environmental niches, which has supported its successful emergence on the global stage. Clinically, these behaviors and its antifungal tolerant phenotype have created an infection prevention and control problem. This chapter review will explain its clinical importance, its importance as a transmissible pathogen, and its key biological features that support biofilm growth. We will also consider why antifungal agents fail, and offer insights into how to optimally prevent and/or control these biofilms within healthcare facilities.