Rise in Drug-Resistant 'Nightmare Bacteria' Cases in the United States
The CDC reports a nearly 70% increase in drug-resistant "nightmare bacteria" infections in the US, driven by the rise of NDM gene-producing bacteria, posing a serious health threat.
Recent reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveal a significant rise in infections caused by drug-resistant bacteria, often referred to as "nightmare bacteria," across the United States. Between 2019 and 2023, these infections increased by nearly 70%, driven primarily by bacteria harboring the NDM gene, which confers resistance to most antibiotics. The bacteria with this gene are difficult to treat because only two antibiotics remain effective, and these must be administered intravenously, often at high cost.
Historically, infections caused by bacteria with the NDM gene were considered rare and typically linked to international health issues. However, recent data indicate that the number of cases within the U.S. has surged more than fivefold in recent years, raising alarms within the medical community. Experts warn that many individuals may unknowingly carry these resistant bacteria, which could lead to community spread. This scenario threatens to turn manageable infections, such as urinary tract infections, into more persistent and challenging health problems.
Antimicrobial resistance occurs when pathogens like bacteria evolve mechanisms to evade the effects of antibiotics, often exacerbated by misuse and overuse of these drugs. The COVID-19 pandemic contributed to this trend, as antibiotic use increased dramatically during the crisis, possibly accelerating the development of resistant strains.
The CDC has highlighted the rise of "nightmare bacteria," which include carbapenem-resistant organisms resistant to last-line antibiotics like carbapenems. Data from 29 states reporting comprehensive testing showed 4,341 cases of carbapenem-resistant infections in 2023, with 1,831 being NDM producers. The incidence rate of these resistant infections climbed by approximately 69% since 2019, and NDM cases specifically skyrocketed by about 460%. Experts suggest that the actual numbers are likely underestimated due to inconsistent testing and reporting across states.
The ongoing increase in these infections presents a serious threat to public health, emphasizing the need for enhanced surveillance, prudent antibiotic use, and new strategies to combat antimicrobial resistance. Addressing this threat requires coordinated efforts at both the policy and clinical levels to prevent further escalation.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-nightmare-bacteria-cases.html
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Study Finds Wildfire Smoke and Heat Stress During Pregnancy Increase Risk of Adverse Birth Outcomes
New research links wildfire smoke and heat stress exposure during preconception and pregnancy to increased risks of adverse birth outcomes, emphasizing community vulnerability and climate resilience.
Urban Environments and Their Impact on Asthma Development
Urban environments significantly increase the risk of developing asthma due to air pollution, limited green spaces, and urban infrastructure, highlighting the importance of sustainable city planning for respiratory health.
Medical Curriculum Emphasizing Patient Trust Enhances Bedside Cardiac Assessment Learning
A new medical curriculum emphasizing patient trust and humility enhances students' bedside cardiac assessment skills and professional identity, fostering more compassionate healthcare providers.
New Program Supports Women with Obesity Planning Pregnancy
Northwestern Medicine's PEARL program offers personalized preconception care for women with obesity, focusing on healthy lifestyle management to improve pregnancy outcomes and maternal health.