Researchers are attempting to find out whether a new method of treating sepsis could reduce the risk of developing superbugs.
Sepsis is a life-threatening condition which occurs when the immune system overreacts to an infection and can cause damage to a person's organs.
The illness can be treated using antibiotics, but their overuse can lead to dangerous microorganisms becoming resistant to medication.
Newcastle University is leading a UK-wide trial to work out whether a shorter course of antibiotics can treat sepsis, giving superbugs less chance to develop.
Dr Tom Hellyer, clinical senior lecturer at Newcastle University and the trial's chief investigator, said striking the right balance of using the drugs can be challenging.
