The CDC warned that drug-resistant germs cause 50,800 deaths annually in the United States
The CDC warned Tuesday that drug-resistant germs cause an estimated 9.7 million infections and 50,800 deaths annually in the United States, calling them a growing threat, according to a new report. CDC director Dr. Erica Schwartz said antimicrobial resistance threatens modern medicine. The agency classifies four germs as urgent and tracks six on a watch list, including drug-resistant ringworm.
More context
The CDC warned Tuesday that drug-resistant germs are a growing threat in the United States, causing an estimated 9.7 million infections and 50,800 deaths each year, according to a new agency report. The report says bacteria and fungi can survive medications designed to kill them. CDC director Dr. Erica Schwartz warned that antimicrobial resistance puts millions of Americans at risk each year and imperils modern medicine. The CDC classifies drug-resistant germs as “urgent,” “serious” or “concerning.” Four are in the urgent category, the agency’s highest level of concern. It is also tracking six germs on a watch list because their full impact is not yet known. One is drug-resistant ringworm, a fungal skin infection becoming harder to treat with standard fungal medications. The CDC says misuse of over-the-counter antifungal creams and steroid-antifungal combinations may contribute to resistance.
Was this story useful?
What was the main problem? (optional)
Reporting
Verifier’s note
ABC News and NBC News both report the CDC’s warning that drug-resistant germs are a growing threat, with more than 50,000 deaths annually in the U.S. Both reports were published on October 27, 2026.