Planning to travel abroad soon? Most likely, given our current pandemic, the answer to this question is no—for now. However, Covid-19 presents us the perfect example of how infectious diseases can travel from place to place. Today, we’re dealing with a highly infectious respiratory virus that began in China and has traveled the globe. Therefore, it goes without saying that international travel can carry risks that should be addressed well before traveling. In fact, it is best to see either ... [Read More]
Immunizations / Vaccinations
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]
Why it is Important to Immunize Your Kids
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), preventable childhood diseases such as whooping cough, mumps, measles, and diphtheria are once again on the rise. In large part, this is because many parents do not believe in immunizing their children. In others, parents do not know that low-cost and no cost vaccines are available. Some parents have been misinformed due to a movement based on pseudo-science and bogus claims that vaccines cause autism. Medical studies have ... [Read More]