The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has raised an alarm about a rapid rise in drug-resistant bacterial infections—often referred to as “nightmare bacteria.” These infections are becoming harder to treat and pose a serious threat to public health across the United States.
A Dangerous Trend Since 2019
According to a recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine on September 23, infections caused by carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) have surged by nearly 70% since 2019. This increase began just before the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to grow at a concerning rate.
What Are “Nightmare Bacteria”?
The term “nightmare bacteria” was first used by former CDC Director Tom Frieden in 2013. It refers to a group of bacteria that are resistant to nearly all antibiotics, including carbapenems—one of the strongest and most effective antibiotic types.
Carbapenems are usually the last line of defense for treating serious infections when other antibiotics fail. When bacteria evolve to resist even these drugs, treatment options become extremely limited or ineffective.
Why These Superbugs Are So Dangerous
Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) can spread quickly in hospitals, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities. Patients who are already weak or have medical devices like catheters or ventilators are at the highest risk.
These bacteria don’t just resist treatment—they also have the potential to spread their resistance to other bacteria, making infections even more difficult to control.
CDC’s Urgent Call for Action
Danielle Rankin, an epidemiologist at the CDC, emphasized that the sharp rise in NDM-CRE infections is a major public health concern:
“Selecting the right treatment has never been more complicated, so healthcare providers must have access to advanced testing to identify and treat these infections effectively.”
The CDC recommends that hospitals strengthen their infection prevention programs, increase testing, and improve antibiotic use strategies to slow down the spread of these dangerous bacteria.
How to Protect Yourself
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Practice good hygiene: Wash hands regularly, especially in healthcare settings.
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Avoid unnecessary antibiotics: Only use antibiotics prescribed by a certified doctor.
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Stay informed: Follow CDC health alerts and local health department updates.
Bottom Line
The rise of drug-resistant “nightmare bacteria” in the U.S. is a clear warning that antibiotic misuse and lack of infection control can have deadly consequences. Public awareness, responsible antibiotic use, and stronger healthcare measures are essential to stop this growing threat.
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