Since the discovery of antibiotics in the mid-20th century, millions of lives have been saved from bacterial infections. But the over-prescription of these drugs has led to some types of bacteria becoming resistant to treatment.

It’s estimated at least two million people are infected with antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the United States each year. These “superbugs” can spread rapidly and stopping them is increasingly challenging as new antibiotics need to be developed to treat them.

William Isdale spoke to Dr Mark Blaskovich about the the overuse of antibiotics and the risks superbugs pose to communities.

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Additional Audio

• New study raising alarms about ‘superbugs’, CNN

• ‘Nightmare’ drug-resistant bacteria found in U.S., CNN

Music

• Free Music Archive: Blue Dot Sessions - Wisteria

• Free Music Archive: Johnny_Ripper - Gaël

William Isdale does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.