Drug-resistant "nightmare bacteria", particularly those with the NDM gene, are surging in the US. A CDC report reveals a nearly 70% increase in infection rates between 2019 and 2023. The rise is attributed partly to antibiotic misuse and the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on antibiotic use. Only two expensive IV antibiotics are effective, and the true number of infections is likely underestimated due to incomplete testing and reporting across states. This alarming increase poses a significant public health threat.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.