Deadly fungus spreads in Virginia

• Officials blame poor infection prevention efforts in health care settings — a problem exacerbated by the pandemic, per the CDC.

What they’re saying: In a letter last week, acting state epidemiologist Laurie Forlano urged health care providers to make sure they are following infection prevention measures, including hand washing and patient screening.

By the numbers: Virginia reported 40 clinical cases last year, up from 15 in 2021.

• Cases have continued rising this year, according to preliminary data, with the majority of cases reported in central and northern Virginia, per the Virginia Department of Health.

Of note: The CDC says the fungus generally does not pose a threat to healthy people, warning that people in long-term health care settings face the greatest risk.