Summary
In the U.S., cases of drug-resistant bacteria, known as "nightmare bacteria," have risen sharply. This increase is part of a broader issue called antimicrobial resistance, where bacteria and other microbes no longer respond to medicines designed to kill them. Health experts warn this could lead to fewer treatment options for infections.
Key Facts
- "Nightmare bacteria" infections in the U.S. increased by 70% from 2019 to 2023.
- These bacteria, called NDM-CRE, resist carbapenem, a powerful antibiotic used for severe infections.
- Antimicrobial resistance makes it hard to treat diseases as bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens grow immune to drugs.
- The WHO lists antimicrobial resistance as a top public health threat globally.
- Common antibiotics are losing effectiveness against several dangerous bacteria, including E. coli and K. pneumoniae.
- Health officials recommend more testing and careful use of antibiotics to limit the spread.
- Drug-resistant bacteria can lead to infections that are harder to treat and have higher death rates.
