Story perspectives

Drug-Resistant 'Nightmare Bacteria' Infections Surge 70% Since 2019

9/24/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) researchers say infections with drug-resistant 'nightmare bacteria' rose nearly 70% from 2019 to 2023, driven by New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase (NDM) gene.
Only two expensive antibiotics are effective; they must be given IV.
U.S. cases rose over fivefold; in 2023, 4,341 carbapenem-resistant infections were reported, including 1,831 NDM cases.
Misuse of antibiotics contributed to resistance, while testing and reporting are incomplete.

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Story summary

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) researchers say infections with drug-resistant 'nightmare bacteria' rose nearly 70% from 2019 to 2023, driven by New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase (NDM) gene.
Only two expensive antibiotics are effective; they must be given IV.
U.S. cases rose over fivefold; in 2023, 4,341 carbapenem-resistant infections were reported, including 1,831 NDM cases.
Misuse of antibiotics contributed to resistance, while testing and reporting are incomplete.