• What Antibiotics Are
• How They Work
• Antibiotics Self Test

• Virus versus Bacteria
• Test Your Knowledge

• What Antibiotics Resistance Means
• Preventing Resistance
• Washing Your Hands

• Symptom Relief
• Your Pharmacist
• Dr. Mom

• Web Sites
• Books
• Pamphlets/Periodicals

• Program Overview
• Behind The Camera
• Order The Video

 Healthworks special looked at deadly viruses and misuse of antibiotics on the prairie

We've seen the horror movies of superflu and flesh-eating bacteria. But behind the Hollywood hype is a very real danger. Here on the prairie, antibiotic resistant strains of staph and strep are putting the lives and health of many people in danger.

This Healthworks special examined how the widespread use of antibiotics have contributed to this problem and what we can do to safeguard our family's health. Antibiotics: The Untold Story aired live on Prairie Public, Wednesday, October 18, at 9 p.m. (CT). The program featured Dr. Godela Iverson, infectious disease specialist with Dakota Clinic, and Dr. Paul Carson, infectious disease specialist with Meritcare Clinic, who will answer phone calls from viewers.

"I'm a pretty typical health-care consumer," says Healthworks producer Kim Stenehjem. "If I'm sick, I want to get better and, in my mind, that used to mean getting a prescription for something. Now that I know the dangers, I'll stick to chicken soup next time I get a cold."

Antibiotics: The Untold Story was hosted by Doug Hamilton and featured advice on when antibiotics are needed (and when they are not) and what a person can do to feel better. Viewers called in their questions live to the panel who can provide insight into the safe ways to use antibiotics and over-the-counter medication and advice on how to feel better when a virus hits home.

Funding for Healthworks is provided by Dakota Medical Foundation.

© 1999 Prairie Public Broadcasting, Inc.