Nightmare Bacteria Infections Rise by Almost 70 Percent in US
The number of infections caused by "nightmare bacteria" with the New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase (NDM) gene rose by almost 70 percent between 2019 and 2023 in the United States, according to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These bacteria are resistant to nearly all antibiotics, making them a significant public health concern.
The CDC's report highlights that infections caused by NDM-positive bacteria increased from 1,111 cases in 2019 to 1,879 cases in 2023. The majority of these cases were reported in hospitals and healthcare facilities across the country. "This is a concerning trend," said Dr. Anne Schuchat, former CDC Principal Deputy Director. "The rise in NDM-positive infections underscores the need for continued vigilance and investment in antibiotic stewardship and research."
Background on the issue reveals that NDM-positive bacteria were once considered exotic and were linked to only a small number of patients, mostly outside the US. However, their presence has become more widespread globally, with reports from Europe, Asia, and Africa. "The global spread of these superbugs is a ticking time bomb," said Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, Technical Lead for COVID-19 at the World Health Organization (WHO). "We need to take immediate action to address this issue through improved infection control measures, enhanced surveillance, and development of new antibiotics."
Experts attribute the increase in NDM-positive infections to overuse and misuse of antibiotics, which has accelerated the emergence of resistant bacteria. Additionally, the lack of effective treatments for these infections poses a significant challenge for healthcare providers.
The CDC's report emphasizes that only one type of antibiotic, carbapenems, is known to be effective against NDM-positive bacteria. However, even this treatment option is becoming increasingly scarce due to overuse and resistance.
As the global health community grapples with this crisis, researchers are working on developing new antibiotics and improving existing treatments. "We need a multifaceted approach that includes improved infection control measures, enhanced surveillance, and development of new antibiotics," said Dr. Schuchat. "The clock is ticking, and we must act now to prevent the spread of these nightmare bacteria."
Current Status:
The CDC has launched an initiative to improve antibiotic stewardship and reduce the emergence of resistant bacteria.
Researchers are working on developing new antibiotics and improving existing treatments for NDM-positive infections.
Global health authorities are collaborating to share best practices and coordinate efforts to combat the spread of these superbugs.
Next Developments:
The CDC will continue to monitor and report on the trend of NDM-positive infections.
International collaborations will be strengthened to address the global spread of these bacteria.
Researchers will focus on developing new antibiotics and improving existing treatments for NDM-positive infections.
*Reporting by Aljazeera.*
