People often use the term “flu” to describe any illness that causes many of the same symptoms of flu. But they may actually have what’s called a “flu-like illness.” A flu-like illness causes many of the same symptoms as the flu but is caused by something other than the flu virus. So, how can you tell if what you have …
Read Full ArticleCroup can leave a child feeling miserable and parents in a panic. The condition is caused by inflammation and swelling of the airway below the vocal cords. This swelling leads to a variety of symptoms, most notably a harsh, “barking” cough. Many cases of croup can be treated at home. But the condition can become serious so it’s important to …
Read Full ArticleIf you think you don’t have to worry about measles anymore, think again. If you haven’t received the Measles, Mumps and Rubella vaccine (MMR) – or you can’t recall if you received it as a child – you should get vaccinated now. Here’s why… Europe is experiencing a record-setting outbreak of measles. This is leading to a rise in cases …
Read Full ArticleMono (also known as infectious mononucleosis, or “the kissing disease”) is a viral infection that spreads readily, especially among teenagers and young adults. In fact, it is most common among college students, perhaps because they often live in close proximity while at school. Several Potential Causes Mono may be caused by any one of several different viruses. It is most …
Read Full ArticleE. coli is a bacterial infection capable of making a person violently ill. Outbreaks of E. coli infection seldom claim just one victim, and these mass occurrences seem to appear in the national news with alarming frequency. Often, sick individuals are diagnosed with a particularly virulent strain of the bacteria. An outbreak of the infection is typically traced back to …
Read Full ArticleDespite the name, ringworm is not actually caused by — nor is it in any way related to — worms. Rather, it is the common name given to a fungal infection of the skin. What Causes Ringworm? The skin infection most commonly referred to as “ringworm” is actually tinea corporis, meaning, simply, a fungal skin infection that occurs somewhere on …
Read Full ArticleHIV is no longer the mortal threat it once was. But it remains a serious infection that must be addressed to prevent harm to one’s self or others. Infection with HIV — the virus responsible for AIDS — is treatable. But it’s essential that you get tested as soon as possible if you suspect you may have been infected. Unprotected …
Read Full ArticleFor many centuries, humankind has been plagued by a number of infections primarily transmitted through intimate sexual contact. Known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), these diseases run the gamut from common and annoying (e.g. chlamydia or genital herpes), to less common, but far more serious (e.g. HIV or syphilis). It takes time for noticeable symptoms …
Read Full ArticleCaring for an infant is a big responsibility. Among other challenges, parents and caregivers must always be vigilant to keep their baby safe. Caring for a healthy baby can be demanding enough but caring for a sick baby is even more so. Among other concerns, new parents tend to worry that their baby may be running a fever. The first …
Read Full ArticleAre you experiencing coughing, sneezing, or congestion? Are you producing nasal discharge? Have you had a sore throat or fever? If you can answer yes to one or more of these symptoms, you may be suffering from an upper respiratory tract infection. What Is an Upper Respiratory Infection (URI)? The name is self-explanatory — an infection of the upper respiratory …
Read Full ArticleIf you are a smoker, you may be wondering if you’re at greater risk of contracting COVID-19. Although there haven’t yet been any studies providing a conclusive answer to this q Read More
If you’re experiencing a sore throat, you’re probably concerned about what’s causing it. Less than a year ago, a simple sore throat usually wouldn’t be much cause for conce Read More
In these stressful times, COVID-19 prevention is at the forefront of almost everyone’s minds. Whether you have been working outside your home throughout the pandemic, or you’re Read More
