CDC reports rising antimicrobial resistance in hospitals

A new study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals important trends in hospital infections resistant to treatment. The research covers data from 2012 to 2022 and highlights both positive and concerning changes. From 2012 to 2019, the rates of antimicrobial resistance in hospitals decreased. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic years, specifically 2020 and 2021, these rates increased again. The study focused on six key pathogens, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE). While many infections remained stable or even declined, certain types of infections increased significantly. Researchers noted that the percentage of resistant E. coli and Klebsiella infections grew sharply in both sterile and nonsterile areas of the body. They also observed differences in resistance rates based on factors like region, sex, and age. Generally, males and older adults showed higher rates of resistant infections. The study suggests that the pandemic disrupted normal infection control practices, leading to a rise in resistant cases. Factors such as reduced hospital admissions and a shift in patient demographics during the pandemic contributed to this trend. The length of hospital stays also increased, which can result in a higher risk of infections. The CDC emphasizes the need for ongoing and adaptable infection prevention strategies, especially during stressful healthcare situations like the pandemic. The findings highlight that even during challenging times, effective prevention measures are essential to combat rising resistance rates.