Medicine & healthcare

CDC Issues Alert for Drug-Resistant Stomach Bug

MAR 1 2023·Updated MAR 2 2023

Story

Image credit: Science Photo Libra/Getty Images [via New York Post]

The Facts

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says it's tracking a rise in stomach illnesses caused by infections with "extensively drug-resistant" Shigella bacteria. Shigella is resistant to multiple antibiotics including azithromycin, ciprofloxacin, and ceftriaxone.
FOX News
According to CDC data, there are about 450K shigellosis infections every year in the US, resulting in an estimated $93M in direct medical costs. The agency also reported that 5% of infections were "extensively drug-resistant" in 2022, up from zero cases in 2015.
New York Post
Shigellas, which can cause diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, were predominantly found in children under four, but the CDC has noticed an increase in adults — particularly gay and bisexual men, the homeless, travelers from overseas, and people with HIV.
Independent
Of the 41 extensively drug-resistant patients the CDC surveyed, 88% reported having male-to-male sexual contact. Diagnoses were also reported in a total of 39 states, the most prevalent of which were California with 76 cases, Colorado with 36, and Massachusetts with 34.
Daily Mail
Colorado health official Rachel Jervis said that of the 17 recently identified extensively drug-resistant cases, "Almost half were hospitalized...24% were experiencing homelessness, 29% reported drug use, and 59% were immunocompromised."
CBS News
Beyond consulting with professionals experienced in treating antibiotic-resistant bacteria, the CDC's recommendations for those suspected or confirmed cases include staying home from work, abstaining from sex, frequent hand washing, and other hygienic precautions.
New York Post

Sources Split

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The Spin

Narrative A

Though developing countries with poor water quality will be hit hardest by an increase in Shigella cases, the virus itself is, in general, a relatively minor threat. Good hygiene, rest, and hydration are key. Scientists are also, albeit in the beginning stages, working on a vaccine to prevent infection in the first place.

Gizmodo

Narrative B

Shigellosis does go away after some rest for most people, but a rise in drug-resistant cases should still alarm us. For immunocompromised patients — such as those with untreated HIV or who are undergoing chemotherapy — there are real risks of serious illness and hospitalization.