CDC Reports Increase in Drug-Resistant Infections in U.S. Healthcare Facilities

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) held a telebriefing to discuss the increased prevalence of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) in U.S. hospitals and other inpatient medical settings. CRE are a family of bacteria resistant to carbapenem antibiotics, often considered the last line of defense against many bacterial infections.

The Vital Signs report, released by the CDC, highlights the dangers posed by CRE. These bacteria can cause severe, sometimes fatal, infections. The report notes that in some medical facilities, CRE represents an established and ongoing threat to patients. According to the CDC, the rise of CRE infections jeopardizes patient safety and places additional strain on healthcare resources.

The CDC aims to inform both healthcare providers and the public about the risks associated with CRE and to promote strategies for prevention and control. Their recommendations address infection control practices within healthcare facilities, including improved hand hygiene, environmental cleaning, and antimicrobial stewardship programs. Improved detection and lab capacity are other avenues that will help address this growing risk.