Measles Campaign Cuts Deaths by Almost Half
Written by Cynthia Kirk
11 April 2006


I'm Steve Ember with the VOA Special English Health Report.

Measles is an infection of the breathing system. The cause is a virus. It spreads through the air when infected people cough or sneeze. Measles spreads very easily.

UN Officials Say Bird Flu Threat Remains High Despite International Efforts
By Scott Bobb
Bangkok
10 April 2006


United Nations officials say the bird flu virus that has killed more than 100 people and millions of fowl in various parts of the world continues to pose a major threat, despite successes by some countries in combating it. But they say the recent outbreak in Burma is more serious than previously thought, causing new concerns.

Insects Eating Your Crops? Call on a Ladybug
Written by Mario Ritter
10 April 2006


I'm Steve Ember with the VOA Special English Agriculture Report.

There are lots of insects that farmers hate. But there also are some they like. These protect crops against damage from other insects. A good example is the lady beetle, also known as the ladybug.

Depression Study Finds Hope in Different Treatments, at Least for Some People
Written by Nancy Steinbach, Caty Weaver & Brianna Blake
10 April 2006

(MUSIC)

VOICE ONE:

This is SCIENCE IN THE NEWS in VOA Special English. I'm Bob Doughty.

VOICE TWO:

And I'm Pat Bodnar. This week: A big study of depression and treatments...

Anti-Royal Protests Continue to Grip Nepal
By Anjana Pasricha
New Delhi
10 April 2006


Nepal's political turmoil is deepening, with pro-democracy protests continuing to grip the country. The political opposition has vowed to intensify its campaign to end King Gyanendra's direct rule.