The fall/winter flu season generally begins in October and starts to die down by February. However, in some cases, people can still get the flu until May. Although no one is 100% naturally immune from the flu, there are ways to successfully prevent it. Here are three key tips that will help you avoid getting the flu this season and every flu season to come. Tip #1: Wash Your Hands Regularly Regular handwashing with soap and warm water can help prevent the spread of the flu virus. The ... [Read More]
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Vaccinations: Are They Safe?
The safety of vaccines is a point of contention for many people. You’ve probably heard of the myth about the measles vaccine causing autism or that the flu vaccine causes the flu. Just to be clear: Vaccines go through lengthy clinical trials plus a rigorous approval process by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a vaccine safety program that constantly monitors vaccines, identifies possible side effects, and ... [Read More]
Flu Shots: How Safe Are They?
Many believe the flu is nothing more than a very bad cold; however, the flu can be deadly. Because it weakens the immune system, the flu can leave you vulnerable for opportunistic infections – notably bacterial pneumonia – the results of which can be devastating. Since it’s nearly impossible to avoid coming into the contact with the virus, your best protection is to get a flu shot. Here’s why getting a flu shot is the safest, most convenient way to avoid getting the flu this or any other ... [Read More]
The Long-Term Effects of STDs
Almost 20 million Americans contract a sexually transmitted disease (STD) each year. That statistic may or may not surprise you, but those who are afflicted with an STD – both men and women – could face dire consequences if they allow the embarrassment and stigma attached to these diseases to prevent them from seeking immediate medical help. The most common STDs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, chancroid, herpes, HIV/AIDS, and hepatitis B and C. Some of these diseases respond quickly and ... [Read More]
Talking to Your Teenager about STDs
If you are wondering when is the best time to talk about sex with your teen, the answer is “the sooner the better”. You definitely don’t want to be having this conversation while driving to the pharmacy to fill a prescription for a sexually transmitted disease (STD). The truth is that about 80% of teens are sexually active by the time they reach the age of 19 and approximately ½ of the 20 million reported cases of STDs annually are in people aged 15 to 24 years old. These reported cases include ... [Read More]
