The novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) is a highly contagious illness that primarily spreads via respiratory droplets that become airborne when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks, and are then inhaled by an uninfected person. To help prevent the widespread transmission of COVID-19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you quarantine—or separate yourself from other people—for …
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The novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) is a brand-new respiratory illness that doesn’t always produce symptoms. And when it does, the symptoms can be deceivingly similar to those produced by acute bronchitis. Also known as a chest cold, acute bronchitis is a common lung condition that causes airway inflammation. For example, the hallmark signs of COVID-19 are a persistent dry cough, …
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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 …
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Croup 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 …
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If 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 …
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Mono (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 …
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E. 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 …
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Despite 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 …
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HIV 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 …
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For 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 …
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