The present invention features compositions that include a fungal glucosylceramide (GlcCer) purified from a non-pathogenic fungus (e.g., Candida utilis) and, optionally, an adjuvant. The invention also features methods of treating a patient who has a fungal disease and methods of preventing a fungal disease in a subject by administration of these compositions. Also within the scope of the invention are methods of formulating a fungal vaccine by: (a) providing a fungal glucosylceramide isolated from a non-pathogenic fungus and (b) combining the fungal glucosylceramide with an adjuvant in a physiologically acceptable excipient.
