National Updates
CDC Warns of Surge in NDM-CRE “Nightmare Bacteria”
A new CDC report shows a dramatic rise in carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales carrying the NDM gene (NDM-CRE) between 2019 and 2023. These superbugs are resistant to multiple last-resort antibiotics, posing serious risks for hospital patients. CDC+2Scientific American+2
STD Cases Down, But Congenital Syphilis Still Rises
CDC data indicates adult gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis cases declined in 2024, but congenital syphilis (infection in newborns) continued to climb, reaching nearly 4,000 cases. Gaps in prenatal screening are implicated. AP News
Texas Updates
Screwworm Case Detected Just 70 Miles from Texas Border
Mexico confirmed a cattle infected with New World screwworm (NWS) in Sabinas Hidalgo, Nuevo Leon—a location less than 70 miles from Texas. This is the most northerly detection in the current outbreak. Reuters+3Reuters+3AP News+3
- U.S. livestock imports from Mexico remain suspended.
- USDA is evaluating whether to release sterile flies near the border as a countermeasure. Chron+3Reuters+3AP News+3
- To date, no screwworm flies have been trapped in Texas, Arizona, or New Mexico. Chron+2APHIS+2
Global Health Alerts
Global Health Funding and Resistance Trends Under Scrutiny
The Gates Foundation pledged $912 million to the Global Fund, aiming to offset declining government donations for AIDS, TB, and malaria programs. Observers warn of widening gaps in health program sustainability. Reuters
WHO Reaffirms No Link Between Acetaminophen, Vaccines & Autism
In response to recent claims, WHO reiterated there is no credible evidence linking acetaminophen use during pregnancy or vaccines to autism. Public messaging is urged to curb misinformation. Reuters
Clinical Tips for Providers
- Superbug vigilance: Be alert to infections not responding to broad-spectrum antibiotics. Steward antibiotic use tightly.
- Prenatal care: Ensure early and repeat syphilis screening in pregnancy; follow-up on positive results.
- Screwworm awareness: Inspect livestock wounds, report suspect lesions, and educate ranchers near border areas.
- Patient counseling: Provide clear, evidence-based reassurances on vaccine safety and proper analgesic use in pregnancy.
