A new CDC report reveals a nearly 70% surge in drug-resistant "nightmare bacteria" infections between 2019 and 2023. The increase is primarily driven by bacteria carrying the NDM gene, resistant to most antibiotics. Cases jumped over fivefold, with 4,341 carbapenem-resistant infections in 29 reporting states in 2023, 1,831 of which were NDM-type. Experts warn of potential community spread and the underestimation of the actual infection numbers due to incomplete testing and reporting across states. The rise is possibly linked to increased antibiotic use during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.