HHS

Scientists Identify Proteins That Neutralize Multiple Strains of Seasonal and Pandemic Flu Viruses

Scientists have identified a small family of lab-made proteins that neutralize a broad range of influenza A viruses, including the H5N1 avian virus, the 1918 pandemic influenza virus and seasonal H1N1 flu viruses. These human monoclonal antibodies, identical infection-fighting proteins derived from the same cell lineage, also were found to protect mice from illness caused by H5N1 and other influenza A viruses. Because large quantities of monoclonal antibodies can be made relatively quickly, after more testing, these influenza-specific monoclonal antibodies potentially could be used in combination with antiviral drugs to prevent or treat the flu during an influenza outbreak or pandemic.

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Thu, 26 Feb 2009 23:01:00 -0600

About 3,000 U.S. pregnancies every year are affected by neural tube defects, which damage development of a baby’s brain and spine. But women can largely prevent neural tube defects by taking 400 micrograms a day of the vitamin folic acid.

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Executive Order on Stem Cell Research

On March 9, President Obama signed an Executive Order removing barriers to responsible scientific research involving human stem cells and a Presidential memo on scientific integrity. Research involving human embryonic stem cells and human non-embryonic stem cells has the potential to lead to better understanding and treatment of many disabling diseases and conditions.

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Of Interest: Poison Prevention Week

In 2006, 1,900 people visited the Emergency Department each day after a poisoning incident. With just a few simple steps, you can protect yourself and your family from unintentional poisoning. Simply store medicine and toxic products out of children’s reach in locked or childproof cabinets. Keep the phone number for poison control (1-800-222-1222) handy.

You should always follow your doctor’s directions. Take the time to carefully read and follow the direction on the packaging. Always keep your medicine in the original container and never share prescription drugs. Household chemicals can also cause unintentional poisoning and should only be used as directed.

3-18-09