Infections from drug-resistant “nightmare bacteria” have risen by almost 70% in the US between 2019 and 2023, according to the CDC.
Experts say the increase is driven by bacteria carrying the NDM gene (New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase). Once rare and mostly seen outside the US, these bacteria are now spreading domestically.
The NDM gene makes some bacteria resistant to nearly all antibiotics. Carbapenems, previously the last-resort treatment, may no longer work against these infections, raising serious public health concerns.
The CDC warns that vigilance, infection control, and research into new treatments are critical to prevent further spread.
