Quick facts
- Candida auris (C. auris) is concerning in healthcare settings, as it is highly transmissible, has a high case fatality rate, and is prone to developing antimicrobial resistance. Risk factors include prolonged hospital stays, invasive medical devices, and immunocompromised states.
- The Ministry of Health is enhancing provincial surveillance for C. auris and is requesting hospitals and health care providers to voluntarily report newly identified C. auris colonization cases from July 1, 2026, to December 31, 2026. This is in addition to the pre-existing requirement to report C. auris infection.
- This reporting, including the disclosure of personal health information, is authorized under section 39(2)(a) of the Personal Health Information Protection Act as it is made for a purpose of the Health Protection and Promotion Act.
- Expanding surveillance to include C. auris colonization will support a more comprehensive understanding of the burden of C. auris in Ontario and help strengthen protection of the healthcare system.
Key messages for healthcare providers
- Review the attached memo from the Associate Chief Medical Officer of Health for additional guidance on hospital, lab and health care provider key considerations to support C. auris surveillance.
- Report C. auris colonization cases to Halton Region Public Health by calling 311.
- Continue to report all confirmed cases of C. auris infection to Halton Region Public Health by calling 311 no later than the next business day.
Attachment
ACMOH Memo June 8, 2026 – Surveillance of Candida auris Colonization (PDF file).