Fighting the Microbes: The History of Antibiotics

The prescription of antibiotics is a medical tightrope-walk. The drugs save lives, but, because of overuse, may soon usher in a new era of super-germs. This program outlines the discoveries of bacteria and penicillin and sheds light on the frightening emergence of multi-resistant, often deadly microbes during the last six decades. Presenting interviews with researchers who are deeply involved with the issue-including Tufts University microbiology professor Stuart Levy and Eva Nathanson of the World Health Organization's Stop TB Program-the film examines the implications of antibiotic-enhanced livestock feed and the dangers that staphylococcus poses to hospital patients. Viewer discretion advised. Contains footage of injections, surgeries, and open wounds. (30 minutes)