2306 - Candida Auris Outbreak Response: Tabletop Exercise

Session Description: Candida auris (C.auris) is a concerning drug-resistant fungus that has been identified as an urgent threat by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) due to its rapid spread in the United States since 2015. C.auris cases have been identified across the country with highest case counts detected in Illinois, New York, Florida and California. The resilient and persistent nature of this emerging pathogen poses unique challenges to its elimination in healthcare facilities.

The objective of this tabletop exercise is to develop a C.auris outbreak response plan through a simulated C.auris outbreak scenario based on an actual C.auris outbreak. Participants will be led through an evolving outbreak from identification of the first case, through to mitigation of the outbreak. Each stage of the tabletop exercise will allow for collaborative discussion amongst the group. Report outs will be co-led by an infection preventionist experienced in addressing a large C.auris outbreak at their acute care facility and a local health department representative experienced in C.auris outbreaks in skilled nursing facilities, long-term care facilities and acute care hospitals. Participants will be challenged to think creatively and collaboratively about topics including communication, education, screening, environmental cleaning and process improvement initiatives to address the outbreak.

The tabletop exercise will build on best practices and lessons learnt by presenters in their experience with C. auris outbreaks. Following the tabletop exercise participants will be empowered to create a well-developed, practical and achievable infection control plan to address multi-factorial contributing factors to a C.auris outbreak.