Episode 6 – Bacteria
8.30pm, RTÉ One, Monday 15th December 2025
Bacteria are one of Earth’s oldest life forms – dating back over 3 billion years. They’re masters of survival and good bacteria help nature function, but some bacteria cause infection and can be deadly. A century ago, scientists developed the power of antibiotics to kill harmful bacteria with remarkable precision. But bacteria evolve quickly, and some can now resist the very medicines that were created to fight them, making antimicrobial resistance one of the greatest global health threats.
In this episode, we investigate some of the reasons for the increase in antibiotic resistance and meet researchers looking to develop a vaccination against antibiotic resistant bacteria.
We explore the latest technology being developed to tackle bacteria strongholds in healthcare settings and limit the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in wastewater.
Antibiotic use in agriculture is a significant factor in the global challenge of antimicrobial resistance and reducing antibiotic use on farms is a critical step. We meet the researchers, vets and farmers working together for constructive and meaningful change and discuss the One Health concept – that human, animal and environmental health are all connected – which is critical to tackling this crisis.
If you missed the episode, catch up here on the RTE Player