A 15-minute blood test could slash the number of unnecessary antibiotics given to patients by 80 per cent. A 15-minute blood test could slash the number of unnecessary antibiotics given to patients by 80 per cent (stock image)Experts fear that the overuse of antibiotics is driving a superbug epidemic that will kill more people than cancer by 2050. Within 15 minutes lines appear on a display panel, indicating whether a virus or bacterial infection is present. Within 15 minutes lines appear on a display panel, indicating whether a virus or bacterial infection is present. To stop inappropriate prescribing, we need tools to determine quickly if someone has a viral or bacterial infection and whether an antibiotic is needed.

Source: Daily Mail November 05, 2017 22:42 UTC