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Sound Medicine -- November 1, 2003

Hosts Barbara Lewis and Dr. David Crabb talk to physicians and researchers about:

West Nile Virus

Suicide Among the Elderly

Nasal Flu Vaccine

Real Media | Windows Media

West Nile Virus

One person in Indiana has died from West Nile virus, and there have been almost twenty probable human cases of the virus throughout the state. Sixty-eight of Indiana's ninety-two counties have reported that the virus is in their area, whether the result is human infection, or birds that have died from West Nile. Dr. Greg Wilson, head of the Indiana State Department of Health, explains how West Nile virus has affected Hoosiers this year.

The virus is transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes, and most cases are reported in September and October. Mosquitoes, including those carrying the virus, reproduce until the first frost appears, so West Nile generally lies dormant in the winter months. Although most people infected with West Nile virus report mild symptoms or none at all, it is important not to become complacent or let one's guard down. Outside, people should use an insect repellent containing DEET and avoid stagnant water where mosquitoes breed.

Resources:

Learn more how West Nile virus affects Hoosiers at the Indiana State Department of Health.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provide a list of common questions and answers about West Nile.

West Nile virus may not only cause short-term illness. For a small number of people it has lingering effects on the brain.

Suicide Among the Elderly

As we near holiday time, some people look forward to happiness, excitement and anticipation, while others experience sadness and loneliness. The elderly are especially susceptible to loneliness and depression. Dr. John Kennedy, a geriatric psychiatrist at IU School of Medicine, tells us about depression and suicide prevention among seniors.

Suicide disproportionately affects this population, and the highest rates of suicide occur among people aged 65 and older, according to the National Strategy for Suicide Prevention. People in contact with family and friends are less prone to depression and suicide, as are people with adequate access to health services. Also, people who share their feelings with friends or through professional counseling, are more likely to be mentally healthy.

Resources:

View statistics about suicide rates among the elderly reported by the National Strategy for Suicide Prevention.

Learn ways to help older men and women deal with depression.

Locate a depression and bipolar support group in your area.

Nasal Flu Vaccine

Flu season is just around the corner, and that means it is time for your flu vaccine. And if you're frightened by needles, you are in luck -- a new needle-free vaccine may be an option. A nasal spray, known by its market name of FluMist, was approved by the FDA earlier this year. Dr. Stephen Wintermeyer, an associate professor of clinical medicine at IU School of Medicine, and director of the Student Employee Health Center on the IUPUI campus, tells us about the flu and the new nasal spray to treat it.

Health care professionals hope the spray vaccine will encourage more people to get vaccinated. Each year, the flu affects 10-20% of the U.S. population, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Approximately 114,000 people are hospitalized for flu-related complications, and an average of 36,000 people will die from the flu.

Resources:

See what the US Food and Drug Administration has to say about the nasal spray flu vaccine.

Peruse some frequently asked questions (and answers!) about FluMist.

Learn about the flu: its symptoms, treatment and complications.