Typically flu season is usually thought of as occurring in winter however, the severity and timing varies from year to year. As per researchers going back to the last 35 years, flu activity in the United States peaks in February. To best protect yourself and your family regardless of the specific timeframe, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) always recommends getting vaccinated by the end of October. (CDC, 2021) Fall Flu Season In general, flu season can start anytime … [Read more...] about When Is Flu Season?
Prenatal Infection Prevention
Ways to Prevent Disease and Infection Before and During Pregnancy International Prenatal Infection Prevention Month happens each February and is a worldwide observance to promote awareness of infections transmitted from mother to baby during pregnancy or during the delivery process. Prenatal infection prevention is essential for the wellbeing of the infant and the protection of the mother. (US Dept. of Health 2013) The incidence of prenatal infection depends on the causative agent; … [Read more...] about Prenatal Infection Prevention
5 Common Emergencies on Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is a special commemoration of our love for others. We celebrate it in many ways with gifts and date nights. No one is thinking about a visit to the ER on Valentine’s Day, what could possibly happen? Many of us go all out and buy expensive gifts, book exotic holidays or cook a romantic candlelit dinner at home. Our focus is on making the evening memorable, so it can be easy to forget to take basic safety measures. Buying candy, flowers and kissing can come with hidden … [Read more...] about 5 Common Emergencies on Valentine’s Day
Flu Prevention Tips
Preventing the flu must be intentional when it’s flu season. Many of us feel vulnerable, even though flu vaccines exist. We’ve heard stories about flu complications and are aware that such complications can worsen symptoms and even result in death. It’s something no one wants to think about. So, we stay vigilant and we are tasked with staying on top of information that can minimize the risk of acquiring the influenza virus. Who Is Keeping Watch on Flu Outbreaks? The Centers for Disease … [Read more...] about Flu Prevention Tips
Why Flu Vaccines Fail
Why Flu Vaccines Fail and What to Do When They Do Medical Science is aware that flu vaccines can fail. Why get a flu shot if you can still get the flu? That is a complex question. It’s important to be informed about diseases that can affect our health. We are our own patient advocates when it comes to our health and our family’s health. Our goal is for our local families to be informed, especially when certain illnesses like the flu can result in serious, life-threatening complications. … [Read more...] about Why Flu Vaccines Fail
Flu Vaccine Facts
When it comes to the flu vaccine, there are decisions to make. As a community healthcare provider, we are often asked questions about flu vaccine effectiveness, when to get the flu vaccine, what ages are affected most by the flu and what are flu vaccine side-effects. The most vulnerable populations when it comes to illness are the very young and the elderly. Infant bodies are working hard to build immunities. The elderly may have compromised immunities as a result of other illness or may be … [Read more...] about Flu Vaccine Facts