MUHC in the Media - April 14, 2025

For several months, a pilot project using virtual reality has been underway at the Montreal Children’s Hospital that aims to help children cope with the anxiety that comes with having tests. The project is led by Afifah Chaudhry, who until recently worked as a Child Life Specialist in the Hematology-Oncology Clinic, Stéphanie Lepage, Nursing Educator, B8, and Denise Kudirka, Advanced Practice Nurse, Emergency Department. La Presse

La Presse has devoted a feature to a particular type of study that Dr. Brian Ward, senior scientist at The Institute and co-director of the MUHC Vaccine Study Centre, wishes to start at the MUHC in the coming months. This is a challenge study in which participants will be infected with the influenza virus and will remain under observation at The Institute's Centre for Innovative Medicine. Dr. Ward explains that this study could help to refine understanding of the virus and immunity and improve flu vaccines. La Presse

Obesity is not recognized as a disease in Quebec, despite the fact that several institutions such as the World Health Organization have decided to do so, notes Dr. Julie St-Pierre, pediatrician at the Montreal Children's Hospital. TVA Nouvelles, 98.5 FM

A rare medical condition called “cold urticaria” can cause an allergic reaction to sudden drops in temperature. Dr. Moshe Ben-Shoshan, a specialist in pediatric allergy and immunology at the Montreal Children's Hospital, explains. Winnipeg Free Press

Some experts suggest waiting around ten dates before moving to physical intimacy. For others, what matters most is having developed a sense of emotional security and mutual trust. “There is no universal rule,” explains Jennifer Russell, Head of the Department of Psychology for adult sites at the MUHC. “The more the relationship is built on communication, trust, and respect, the more likely the first sexual experience will be positive, genuine and fulfilling.” CJAD