But their side-effects can upset the function of the body's immune system, which could be crucial in a severely injured patient, who needs to fight potential infection.

BBC: Heading for trouble

An infection in the bone could lead to potential issues with bone healing, along with possible spread of infection throughout the body as well.

FORBES: Kevin Ware's 'Gruesome' Injury

Investigators initially alerted the dentistry board to a potential hepatitis C infection from Harrington's office.

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The investigation began after the health department alerted the dentistry board to a potential hepatitis C infection from Harrington's office.

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The giant companies that now produce our food have also become potential vectors for mass infection.

ECONOMIST: Food safety

And if I could wave a wand, I'd love to have a way to measure how exposure to risks like disease, infection, malnutrition and problem pregnancies impact children's potential their ability to learn and contribute to society.

WSJ: Bill Gates on the Importance of Measurement

Dr Mark Enright, an expert in bacterial infection at Bath University, told the BBC News website the research had potential.

BBC: NEWS | Health | Pig molecule to combat superbugs

The Health Protection Agency has published information to enable GPs and clinicians to recognise potential cases early and to then ensure that laboratory confirmation is obtained, treatment started early and infection control and hygiene advice implemented.

BBC: NEWS | Health | 'Community superbug tests' needed