CDC Warns of Rising Drug-Resistant Bacteria in U.S.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning about a sharp rise in infections from carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE), a group of bacteria often referred to as ‘nightmare bacteria,’ in the United States. Between 2019 and 2023, these infections increased by approximately 69% ^[1][2].

Particularly concerning is the surge in infections involving NDM-producing CRE (NDM-CRE), which rose by more than 460% during the same period ^[1][2]. These bacteria are known for causing severe infections, including pneumonia, bloodstream infections, urinary tract infections, and wound infections, and are resistant to nearly all available antibiotics ^[3][4].

The CDC’s findings, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, are based on data collected from 29 states. In 2023, there were 4,341 reported cases of carbapenem-resistant bacterial infections, with 1,831 involving NDM-CRE ^[1][5].

The rise in NDM-CRE infections is attributed to strains carrying the NDM gene, which confers resistance to most antibiotics ^[3][4]. The CDC has emphasized the importance of timely identification and treatment to prevent further transmission and control the spread of these infections ^[3][4].

The CDC has urged healthcare providers to remain informed, conduct prompt testing, carefully select treatments, and enhance infection prevention and control measures ^[3].

What Is Known

The CDC’s report highlights a significant increase in drug-resistant bacterial infections in the U.S., particularly those involving NDM-CRE. The data underscores the challenge posed by these infections due to their resistance to nearly all antibiotics ^[1][2][3].

What Remains Unclear

While the CDC has provided detailed data on the rise of these infections, the specific source behind the surge in NDM-CRE cases remains under investigation ^[6].