CDC plans to list new superbug NDM-1 as communicable disease

The bug takes its name from an enzyme called New Delhi metallo beta-lactamase-1 (NDM-1) that is found in some strains of bacteria, including E-coli, and makes them extremely virulent and resistant to most antibiotics.

The bacteria are transmitted mainly through food preparation, bodily contact and especially hospital procedures.

On Monday, the Japanese government confirmed that a man who visited India last year had contracted NDM-1.

Taiwan's CDC Deputy Director General Chou Jih-haw said that although there have been no reported cases of NDM-1 in Taiwan, the CDC will this week list the superbug in as a communicable disease.

In accordance with communicable disease prevention regulations, Chou said, doctors are required to notify the CDC if they encounter any suspected NDM-1 cases.

Particular attention should be paid to patients who have received medical treatment in India or Pakistan, and in all cases, specimens should be sent to the CDC for testing, he added.

However, it is not very likely that many Taiwanese people would have had hospital treatment in India or Pakistan where most of the NMD-1 cases have been found, he said.

It has been reported in the international media that NDM-1 is widespread in the Indian subcontinent and has also reached countries such as the U.S., Canada, Australia and the Netherlands.

According to medical experts, NDM has the potential to become a global public health issue as the superbug is resistant to almost all antibiotics, even the most powerful ones.

The bug is poised to spread across the world unless new antibiotics are developed quickly, international scientist have warned.

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