70% Explosion in Nightmare Bacteria—CDC Sounds Alarm…the United States has seen a 70% increase in infections from drug-resistant bacteria, often referred to as “nightmare bacteria.” These bacteria carry the NDM gene, making them resistant to almost all available antibiotics, including carbapenems—the last line of defense.

 70% Explosion in Nightmare Bacteria—CDC Sounds Alarm…

A new CDC report reveals a 70% surge in drug-resistant “nightmare bacteria,” posing a grave threat to public health.

Rise of Drug-Resistant Bacteria

Between 2019 and 2023, the United States has seen a 70% increase in infections from drug-resistant bacteria, often referred to as “nightmare bacteria.” These bacteria carry the NDM gene, making them resistant to almost all available antibiotics, including carbapenems—the last line of defense. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has sounded the alarm, warning of severe public health risks.

This uptick aligns with the timeline of the COVID-19 pandemic, during which antibiotic use surged, contributing to the development of resistance. The CDC’s report highlights the alarming rise in cases and stresses the need for improved detection and stewardship programs to combat this threat.

Surveillance and Reporting Challenges

Despite the concerning data, the CDC’s report only covers 29 states, excluding several major population centers such as California, Florida, New York, and Texas. This exclusion suggests that the reported figures may underestimate the true scope of the problem. Many hospitals lack advanced testing capabilities for these resistant strains, complicating efforts to contain and manage outbreaks effectively.

Experts like Dr. Maroya Walters from the CDC and Dr. David Weiss from Emory University have emphasized the grave danger posed by the rise of NDM-positive bacteria in the U.S. They warn that routine infections could become untreatable, leading to higher healthcare costs and increased mortality.

Implications and Urgent Needs

The increase in “nightmare bacteria” infections has significant short-term and long-term implications. In the immediate future, hospitals are likely to see more patients with limited treatment options, resulting in longer hospital stays and higher medical expenses. Long-term, if unchecked, routine infections like urinary tract infections could become untreatable, straining healthcare resources and increasing mortality rates.

Pharmaceutical companies face the challenge of developing new antibiotics to combat these resistant strains. The CDC and healthcare providers must enhance surveillance, improve antibiotic stewardship, and invest in research to develop effective treatments.

Sources:

Drug-Resistant ‘Nightmare Bacteria’ Infections Soar 70% in U.S.

Nightmare bacteria cases rising in the US

Drug-resistant ‘Nightmare Bacteria’ Infections Soar 70% in US

Nightmare bacteria cases are increasing in the US