Fighting A Deadly Fungus: A New Strategy to Reduce Deaths Due to Cryptococcus

This information sheet points out that the fungus Cryptococcus is the most common cause of meningitis in sub-Saharan Africa, and is a leading cause of death among people with HIV. Although it is not possible to prevent the initial infection with Cryptococcus, screening for cryptococcal antigen can detect disease before meningitis develops so treatment can begin and prevent death. A rapid, point-of-care dipstick test is now available for use in screening. CDC is working with countries to implement cryptococcal death prevention programs where screening strategies could save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.