Summary
Infections from drug-resistant "nightmare bacteria" increased by nearly 70% in the United States from 2019 to 2023. These bacteria are difficult to treat as they are resistant to most antibiotics, with only two expensive intravenous drugs available for treatment.
Key Facts
- Infections from drug-resistant bacteria rose nearly 70% in the U.S. between 2019 and 2023.
- The bacteria carry the NDM gene, making them resistant to almost all antibiotics.
- Only two costly, intravenous drugs remain as treatment options.
- These infections were once rare in the U.S. and mainly found in patients treated overseas.
- Recent years have seen U.S. cases increase more than fivefold.
- Common infections like urinary tract infections could become harder to treat due to this resistance.
