NPR

What One Doctor Is Doing To Fight Antibiotic-Resistant 'Superbugs'

"Superbugs: The Race to Stop an Epidemic," by Matt McCarthy. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)

With Meghna Chakrabarti

A doctor’s story of what it takes to save patients from increasingly deadly pathogens. As drug-resistant bacteria spread, can new genomic science battle back the superbugs?

Guest

Matt McCarthy, staff physician at New York Presbyterian Hospital. Assistant professor of medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College. Author of “Superbugs: The Race to Stop an Epidemic.” (@DrMattMcCarthy)

From The Reading List

Excerpt from “Superbugs” by Matt McCarthy

Fleming’s chance discovery of the first antibiotic is enough to spark the imagination of any child with a budding interest in science, but the discovery of the first antifungal drug is equally compelling. It’s a story about two brilliant women

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR5 min read
Can You Survive Summer Indoors Without AC? In Arizona, Many Don’t
Nearly half of the people who suffered heat-related deaths in Arizona last year lived outdoors without shelter, but public health officials and lawmakers are starting to pay more attention to the risk of dying indoors.
NPR4 min read
'Hacks' Season 3 Is Proof That Compelling Storylines And Character Growth Take Time
Ava (Hannah Einbinder) and Deborah (Jean Smart) have both grown a lot since we first met them in Season 1. It's a reminder that shows need breathing room to achieve satisfying development.
NPR4 min read
'Dance Your Ph.D.' Winner On Science, Art, And Embracing His Identity
Weliton Menário Costa's award-winning music video showcases his research on kangaroo personality and behavior — and offers a celebration of human diversity, too.

Related Books & Audiobooks