The Dose

Cases of norovirus, a stomach bug that causes vomiting and diarrhea, are on the rise in Canada and the U.S., and experts say there are easy steps we can take to protect ourselves. Dr. Zain Chagla, an infectious diseases specialist and associate professor at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ont., explains how norovirus spreads, as well as how steps like simple handwashing can keep us safe. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

For many, winter weather means seasonal affective disorder. If you already live with depression, you might notice your symptoms worsen. Research now shows that exercise — as well as therapy and medication — can help. Catherine Sabiston, a University of Toronto professor, director of the Mental Health and Physical Activity Research Centre and Canada Research Chair in physical activity and mental health, explains how exercise can alleviate the signs of depression.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Experts say that frequent use of social media is harming teens’ health, and the Australian government recently passed a law banning it for kids under 16. Here in Canada, Quebec is debating whether to follow suit. Psychiatrist and UBC associate professor of medicine Dr. Shimi Kang says rather than an all-out ban, parents should talk with their kids and figure out a plan that’s right for them.

H5N1 avian flu has now spread through dairy herds in 16 U.S. states. Close to 60 human cases have been reported in the U.S. and one here in Canada with a B.C. teen. Most have been caused through contact with infected animals, though a few sources are unclear. A new study in the journal Science says the virus might be just a single mutation away from more easily spreading between people. But infectious diseases specialist, Dr. Lynora Saxinger, says that while there’s no reason to panic, we need to take precautions and get any exposure to sick animals checked out.