News
September 24, 2025
'Nightmare bacteria' cases are increasing in the US
NEW YORK — Infection rates from drug-resistant “nightmare bacteria” rose almost 70% between 2019 and 2023, according to a new report from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention scientists.
**'Nightmare bacteria' cases are increasing in the US**
NEW YORK — A concerning trend is emerging across the United States as infections caused by highly drug-resistant bacteria, often dubbed "nightmare bacteria," are on the rise. A new report from scientists at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals a significant surge in these infections, with rates climbing nearly 70% between 2019 and 2023. This alarming increase underscores the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance and its potential impact on public health.
These "nightmare bacteria" are particularly worrisome because they have developed resistance to many, if not all, of the antibiotics typically used to treat infections. This makes them incredibly difficult to eradicate, leading to longer hospital stays, higher medical costs, and a greater risk of death. The CDC report highlights the urgent need for stronger infection control measures and the development of new strategies to combat these resilient pathogens.
While the report doesn't pinpoint a single cause for the dramatic increase, experts suggest several contributing factors. The COVID-19 pandemic likely played a significant role, with hospitals facing unprecedented strain and resources stretched thin. Increased antibiotic use during the pandemic, coupled with challenges in maintaining strict infection prevention protocols, may have created an environment where these drug-resistant bacteria could thrive and spread.
The rise in "nightmare bacteria" infections poses a significant challenge to healthcare providers. Treatment options are often limited to last-resort antibiotics, which can be more toxic and less effective. In some cases, infections may become untreatable, leading to severe complications and potentially fatal outcomes.
The CDC is urging healthcare facilities to implement more robust infection control practices, including enhanced hand hygiene, improved environmental cleaning, and more judicious use of antibiotics. Public health officials are also emphasizing the importance of antibiotic stewardship programs, which aim to ensure that antibiotics are only prescribed when truly necessary and for the appropriate duration.
The fight against antimicrobial resistance is a complex and ongoing battle. The latest CDC report serves as a stark reminder of the need for continued vigilance and innovation to protect public health from the growing threat of "nightmare bacteria." Further research is crucial to understand the mechanisms driving resistance and to develop new antibiotics and alternative treatment strategies.
NEW YORK — A concerning trend is emerging across the United States as infections caused by highly drug-resistant bacteria, often dubbed "nightmare bacteria," are on the rise. A new report from scientists at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals a significant surge in these infections, with rates climbing nearly 70% between 2019 and 2023. This alarming increase underscores the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance and its potential impact on public health.
These "nightmare bacteria" are particularly worrisome because they have developed resistance to many, if not all, of the antibiotics typically used to treat infections. This makes them incredibly difficult to eradicate, leading to longer hospital stays, higher medical costs, and a greater risk of death. The CDC report highlights the urgent need for stronger infection control measures and the development of new strategies to combat these resilient pathogens.
While the report doesn't pinpoint a single cause for the dramatic increase, experts suggest several contributing factors. The COVID-19 pandemic likely played a significant role, with hospitals facing unprecedented strain and resources stretched thin. Increased antibiotic use during the pandemic, coupled with challenges in maintaining strict infection prevention protocols, may have created an environment where these drug-resistant bacteria could thrive and spread.
The rise in "nightmare bacteria" infections poses a significant challenge to healthcare providers. Treatment options are often limited to last-resort antibiotics, which can be more toxic and less effective. In some cases, infections may become untreatable, leading to severe complications and potentially fatal outcomes.
The CDC is urging healthcare facilities to implement more robust infection control practices, including enhanced hand hygiene, improved environmental cleaning, and more judicious use of antibiotics. Public health officials are also emphasizing the importance of antibiotic stewardship programs, which aim to ensure that antibiotics are only prescribed when truly necessary and for the appropriate duration.
The fight against antimicrobial resistance is a complex and ongoing battle. The latest CDC report serves as a stark reminder of the need for continued vigilance and innovation to protect public health from the growing threat of "nightmare bacteria." Further research is crucial to understand the mechanisms driving resistance and to develop new antibiotics and alternative treatment strategies.
Category:
Politics