Vaccine helps prevent pneumonia and meningitis

We have said it before...but if you protect yourself with a flu shot, you should think about getting the pneumonia and meningitis shot, too.

The pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine immunizes you against the most common type of bacterial pneumonia, as well as one type of meningitis. The shot is recommended for adults aged 65 and older, anyone over the age of two with weakened immunity or a chronic health problem, and natives of Alaska and certain Native Americans. Most people need the shot just once; a subsequent booster is recommended for high-risk groups. For more information, talk to your physician or go to www.cdc.gov/nip.

Protect Your Feet from the Sun

Your feet are just as susceptible to skin cancer as any other part of your body. According to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, cases of malignant melanoma on the foot and ankle are increasing. This is because we spend a lot of time protecting the rest of our bodies from the sun, such as our face, neck, back and arms. Most of us neglect our feet when applying sunscreen. As a result, our feet aren't getting adequate protection from the sun's damaging ultraviolet rays. And skin abnormalities on the foot and ankle are not noticed as quickly as abnormalities elsewhere on our body, such as our face. The best prevention? Apply sunscreen liberally to both the tops and bottoms of your feet, and be sure to get your ankles in there, too. Wearing closed shoes is another alternative to protecting your feet. If you notice any suspicious moles or pigments on your foot or ankle, see your doctor as soon as possible.

Should We Be Worried About Bird Flu?

There's absolutely no need for us to panic about avian influenza – for now. Currently, avian influenza, known as "bird flu," is a highly species-specific illness and is rarely transmitted to humans. However, there are new cases appearing throughout Asia in which humans are becoming infected with the serious H5N1 strain of the influenza disease. Normally, this strain is transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected poultry or surfaces that are contaminated with excretions from infected birds. Human-to-human transmission is rare, but has been known to occur. The H5N1 strain has been reported in the following countries:

The good news? Tests for diagnosing all types of influenza are fast and reliable. And the chances of becoming infected with the bird flu in North America are very, very low. It remains safe to consume cooked poultry products, as avian influenza is not transmitted through cooked food. If you are planning to travel to any of the above-mentioned affected regions, be sure to avoid contact with animals in live food markets and any surfaces that appear to be contaminated with feces from poultry or any other animals.

For further information on avian influenza, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada website at http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca.

New Developments in the Treatment of Alzheimer's

There has been a recent glimmer of hope in the treatment of Alzheimer's, a debilitating brain disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Scientists at the University of Minnesota now believe that the brains of those with Alzheimer's are not irreversibly damaged. More importantly, and surprisingly, they have found that the disease can be reversed; that is, those with Alzheimer's can regain their memory.

This discovery is the end result of extensive testing on genetically altered mice. In the study, mice were genetically engineered to develop the mutant tau protein, an unhealthy form of natural brain compound. The mice afflicted with Alzheimer's were unable to locate a submerged platform in a water maze. However, once the mutated gene was deactivated, or "switched off," the mice were able re-learn a route to the platform.

Scientists are now looking for ways to de-activate the molecule that causes neurons to malfunction in humans. Although there is much additional testing to be conducted, this particular study has led to a monumental breakthrough in the treatment of Alzheimer's. Says William Thies, vice-president of medical affairs for the Alzheimer's Association, "It at least opens the possibility that people will get better."