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This film is part of Free

Tracing the Spread of Infection

Doctors undertake forensic-style detective work to identify the origins of outbreaks, in the fascinating film from the early days of the NHS.

Documentary 1949 23 mins

Overview

Before the widespread use of antibiotics infectious diseases regularly ran rife through hospitals, and tracing the source of infections was of critical concern. The film describes in fascinating detail the scientific detective work involved in identifying the origins of outbreaks, a discipline which at times resembles a CSI-style forensic investigation.

As antibiotic resistance increases around the globe, we can only hope such diligent methods aren't required once again in future.