Demonstration of the yeasticidal efficacy of povidone-iodine-based commercial antiseptic solutions against Candida auris.

Abstract Candida auris is an emerging yeast pathogen with worldwide distribution and a great propensity for nosocomial spread. Recent reports have warned of the significant emergence of C. auris in several healthcare facilities. In order to stop its nosocomial transmission, use of antiseptics constitutes the first-line lever of action in the fighting against C. auris skin colonization. However, little is known about the efficacy of these products, and moreover no antiseptics are currently registered for use against C. auris. This study investigated the in vitro yeasticidal activity of povidone-iodine against C. auris, and compared the findings to C. albicans and C. glabrata, according to the EN standard 1275:2005. Results support the use of such commercial antiseptics in the context of colonization with this yeast.