Four cases of rare fungus found in WA. Here's what you should know about it
Last month, the first local outbreak of Candida auris, a deadly fungus, was reported in Washington state.
So far, four cases of infection from the fungus have been linked and screened by Kindred Hospital — a long term acute care facility — in Seattle’s First Hill neighborhood.
Cases of C. auris — which was first identified in Japan in 2009 — have risen throughout the United States since 2016.
RELATED: What to know about this deadly fungus in WA before you panic
Listen to the full Soundside segment, featuring interviews with Snohomish County Public Health Officer Dr. James Lewis and the University of Washington School of Medicine's Dr. Seth Cohen, by clicking on the play icon at the top of this story.
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Diana Opong
Reporter & Host
Diana Opong is a general assignment reporter at KUOW, committed to illuminating impactful stories throughout the Pacific Northwest. Her journalistic lens spans between environmental phenomena like invasive green crabs to transformative milestones in ballet. Rooted in curiosity, Diana's approach to reporting blends meticulous research with collaborative storytelling, ensuring her work resonates deeply with audiences. She has also showcased her expertise as a freelance host for NPR's Life Kit and as a spot news reporter for NPR News, consistently delivering insightful narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.
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Alec Cowan
Producer, Soundside
Alec Cowan is a producer for Soundside. His interests have brought many eclectic stories to the program, and his segments gravitate toward history, technology, arts and culture, and the environment. He's proud to be KUOW's unofficial "boat guy."
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