CDC: Drug-resistant ‘nightmare bacteria’ cases on the rise

WASHINGTON (DC News Now) — Cases of the so-called “nightmare bacteria” have shot up across the country, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

A CDC study found an increase in infections of the “NDM-CRE” bacteria within five years, jumping 460% from 2019 to 2023.   

“It’s super scary,” said Nicholas Gourgues. “I hope they can get a wrap around it.”

Most cases are found in healthcare facilities.

“This increase that we’re seeing in NDM-CRE caused us, you know, some alarming concern because these bacteria can cause infections that are extremely hard to treat,” said Dr. Danielle Rankin with the CDC.

Rankin, one of the authors of the CDC study, said the “nightmare bacteria” are difficult to treat due to its antibiotic resistance and fast-spreading nature.

“I’m very worried about it,” said Alex Bako. “…I think that older people need to be worried. I think their children need to be worried.”

The study found NDM-CRE rose by 456% in Maryland, and by 359% in Virginia.

Bako says he is worried about his elderly mother.

“I have my 90-year-old mother right there with me,” said Bako. “We just took her to the doctor. We tried to keep her as clean as possible. Again, it’s very simple. Just wash your hands.”

Rankin explained that the spike in cases remains under investigation; however, she urged that healthcare providers practice good hygiene.

“What we are concerned about is the ability for these to be able to spread outside of healthcare if we aren’t able to halt transmission,” said Rankin.

Rankin says it is important for doctors to test patients, especially for NDM-CRE, and that there are also antibiotics available for patients through IV.