A research study last year showed that a simple antibiotic can reduce a severely malnourished child’s chances of dying by nearly 40 percent. But getting that antibiotic to the children who need it is easier said than done.A research study last year showed that a simple antibiotic can reduce a severely malnourished child’s chances of dying by nearly 40 percent. But getting that antibiotic to the children who need it is easier said than done.