1. It has developed resistance to multiple antifungal medications commonly used to treat fungal infections, which makes it more challenging to treat infections caused by this pathogen, leading to higher morbidity and mortality rates.
2. Candida auris has rapidly spread across different regions of the world, including healthcare facilities. It has the ability to persist on surfaces and withstand typical disinfection practices, making it difficult to control outbreaks and prevent transmission.
3. It primarily affects those with compromised immune systems and/or receiving care in hospitals, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities. Infections caused by this pathogen can be severe, often resulting in bloodstream infections and other life threatening conditions.
4. It may be misidentified or not easily distinguishable from other Candida species using traditional laboratory techniques, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment.

Heightened surveillance, infection prevention measures, and research efforts are crucial in addressing the threats posed by this emerging fungal pathogen.

The table below provides the time required to reach a 99% deactivation at 9 feet for various pathogens.