MPB Announces Live Call-In Show On H1N1

(JACKSON, Miss)— Mississippi Public Broadcasting (MPB) today announced a special television program focused on answering questions about the H1N1 virus. “Southern Remedy: Facts About H1N1” will air live on October 29 at 7 p.m.

In an effort to provide Mississippians with the most accurate information on H1N1, MPB invited a panel of medical experts to participate in this special program and respond to questions from listeners and viewers. Dr. Rick deShazo, Chairman of the Department of Medicine at the University Medical Center and host of MPB Think Radio’s “Southern Remedy” is the show’s moderator.

Dr. deShazo and the medical panel will discuss H1N1 symptoms, treatment, vaccines, public health policy and available resources.

"I have heard concern expressed by a number of folks about the risks and benefits of getting vaccinated with the H1N1 vaccine,” said Dr. deShazo. “One of the things we want to do with this program is provide specific information that will be helpful in making personal decisions about vaccination. If we have a major epidemic in Mississippi this winter, we will have major problems with access to medical care and hospitals.”

Dr. deShazo added, “The second objective of our program is to give folks an opportunity to hear about prevention of infection and when and where to seek medical assistance if it occurs. We are going to try to do this in plain English. Hopefully, folks will call in and participate in the live experience with some real experts, me excluded."

MPB News Director Teresa Collier said, “The flu season is a major concern in communities across Mississippi. It is our hope that this special will give viewers a better understanding of the H1N1 virus and clears up any misinformation. Mississippians will have the opportunity to connect with local medical experts and have their questions answered directly.”

The show will be simulcast on MPB Think Radio and will also be available on www.mpbonline.org. During the special, viewers and listeners can submit their questions by calling toll free 1-877-405-5247 or emailing southernremedy@mpbonline.org. “Southern Remedy: Facts About H1N1” will be available for viewing at www.mpbonline.org after
October 29.

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Mississippi Public Broadcasting (MPB) provides relevant instructional and public programming to Mississippians through its statewide television and radio network. MPB enhances the work of educators, students, parents and learners of all ages through quality programs, resources and services that educate, entertain and enlighten. Children’s programs constitute a major portion of the daytime and weekend morning schedules. Since 1970, MPB has won over 350 national and regional awards, including Emmys and Parents’ Choice Awards, for its productions.

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT: Mari Irby
October 21, 2009	601.432.6286
MPB Announces Live Call-In Show On H1N1
(JACKSON, Miss)— Mississippi Public Broadcasting (MPB) today announced a special television program focused on answering questions about the H1N1 virus. “Southern Remedy: Facts About H1N1” will air live on October 29 at 7 p.m. In an effort to provide Mississippians with the most accurate information on H1N1, MPB invited a panel of medical experts to participate in this special program and respond to questions from listeners and viewers. Dr. Rick deShazo, Chairman of the Department of Medicine at the University Medical Center and host of MPB Think Radio’s “Southern Remedy” is the show’s moderator. Dr. deShazo and the medical panel will discuss H1N1 symptoms, treatment, vaccines, public health policy and available resources. "I have heard concern expressed by a number of folks about the risks and benefits of getting vaccinated with the H1N1 vaccine,” said Dr. deShazo. “One of the things we want to do with this program is provide specific information that will be helpful in making personal decisions about vaccination. If we have a major epidemic in Mississippi this winter, we will have major problems with access to medical care and hospitals.” Dr. deShazo added, “The second objective of our program is to give folks an opportunity to hear about prevention of infection and when and where to seek medical assistance if it occurs. We are going to try to do this in plain English. Hopefully, folks will call in and participate in the live experience with some real experts, me excluded." MPB News Director Teresa Collier said, “The flu season is a major concern in communities across Mississippi. It is our hope that this special will give viewers a better understanding of the H1N1 virus and clears up any misinformation. Mississippians will have the opportunity to connect with local medical experts and have their questions answered directly.” The show will be simulcast on MPB Think Radio and will also be available on www.mpbonline.org. During the special, viewers and listeners can submit their questions by calling toll free 1-877-405-5247 or emailing southernremedy@mpbonline.org. “Southern Remedy: Facts About H1N1” will be available for viewing at www.mpbonline.org after October 29. ### Mississippi Public Broadcasting (MPB) provides relevant instructional and public programming to Mississippians through its statewide television and radio network. MPB enhances the work of educators, students, parents and learners of all ages through quality programs, resources and services that educate, entertain and enlighten. Children’s programs constitute a major portion of the daytime and weekend morning schedules. Since 1970, MPB has won over 350 national and regional awards, including Emmys and Parents’ Choice Awards, for its productions.