03 March – Health

Today we were joined by Dr James Nuttall – Pediatric Infectious disease specialist from the Red Cross Hospital. We were talking about a new vaccine called Diftavax (Td). The Department of Health has added this new vaccine to the Childhood Immunisation Schedule as from the 1st of February 2008. Td is administered to children at the age of 6 and 12 years. Td replaces tetanus diphtheria (TD) vaccine, which was previously administered to children at 5 years. Dr Nuttall explained more about the new vaccine and why the department decided on changing the vaccines. For more information contact your nearest clinic or hospital. That Interview was brought to you by the National Department of Health and Funded by the European Union.
PIC: www.commons.wikimedia.org

And we also spoke to Win Van der Berg – Chairperson of the Western Cape Muscular Dystrophy Foundation of South Africa. We were talking about Muscular Dystrophy and the work that they do as the Foundation. The Muscular Dystrophy Foundation of South Africa is a non-profit organisation which supports people affected by Muscular Dystrophy and Neuromuscular disorders. They support affected people and their families by offering emotional support and genetic counselling. They also support research projects undertaken in South Africa. For more information contact their offices on (021) 592 7306 or visit www.mdsa.org.za

We closed off the show with an interview with Deepeka Patel – A Podiatrist. If you not sure what a Podiatrist is – well She is a specialist who treats the foot, both medically, surgically, as well as biomechanically. Podiatrists play an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of systemic and local conditions which may affect the feet and lower limb such as: General foot problems, Growth & development, Diabetes, Arthritis, Circulation problems and Sports injuries. Podiatrists also analyse the biomechanics of the lower limb and foot. Abnormal movement may result in foot, ankle, knee, hip and lower back pain in the young and elderly. Deepeka explained more about her profession especially on biomechanics. If you would like more information or you would like a check-up on your feet contact Deepeka for an appointment on (021) 531 6691 or the South African Podiatry Association on 0861 100 249 or log on to www.podiatrist.co.za for the details of your nearest podiatrist. Remember that podiatrists are registered with the Health Professions Council, so you can claim their fees from your medical scheme.
PIC: www.foothealthcare.com