Please be advised; Fireworks are illegal in Connecticut, Massachusetts and New York. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display conducted at a state-approved site by licensed pyrotechnicians. Summer means picnics, barbecues, parades and fireworks displays, especially around the 4th of July. Before your family celebrates, make sure everyone knows about fireworks safety. If not handled …
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The weather is turning cooler, and unfortunately that means flu season is right around the corner. It’s time to get your yearly flu shot! Here’s what you need to know… The 2017-18 Flu Season Was Record Breaking Last year’s flu season came early, lasted longer than usual and hit harder than usual, setting records for flu-related deaths and hospitalizations …
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that more than 30,000 Americans will develop Lyme disease this year — 30,000! Fortunately, there are several ways to protect yourself and your family from tick bites and tickborne illnesses such as Lyme disease. Know where to expect ticks. Ticks typically live in moist environments, usually in or near wooded or …
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How is a Cold different from Allergies? Although they may share similar symptoms, colds and allergies are quite different. Understanding the underlying cause of each of these conditions can help you to distinguish one from the other. What Is a Cold? A cold occurs when a virus enters the body and causes an aggressive response from the body’s immune system. …
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Blood Pressure Readings What do blood pressure readings mean? The top or “systolic” number measures blood pressure in the arteries when the heart beats and pumps blood out to the body. The bottom or “diastolic” number measures blood pressure in the arteries between heartbeats, when the heart muscle is refilling with blood. An example of a typical blood pressure is …
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According to experts, Lyme disease could be a big problem in the Northeast this spring and summer. To better protect yourself and your family from complications, read over this quick guide for preventing and treating this serious illness. What Is Lyme Disease? Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is passed to people from the bite of …
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Rich in omega 3 fatty acids, fish provide major nutritional benefits for developing fetuses and young children. Unfortunately, many parents and pregnant women avoid fish, because they are worried about toxic metals. Recently, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued updated advice on fish consumption. If you’re unsure about how much fish you or …
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Most pet owners agree that animal companions offer much-needed emotional comfort when life gets difficult. Now, a new study suggests they could do even more for people suffering from serious mental illnesses. Published in the journal BMC Psychiatry, the study included 54 subjects who had all been diagnosed with long-term mental health problems, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Researchers …
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Smartphones, tablets and computers have become a ubiquitous part of American culture. Unfortunately, they may be having a negative impact on the health of young people, who appear to be exchanging bad TV habits for time on these devices. Troubling Study According to new research out of Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, screen devices are promoting obesity in …
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While millions of Americans have taken steps to protect themselves against the influenza virus, experts say the numbers are still too low. If you haven’t been vaccinated against the seasonal flu, learn why you should make it a priority. Lack of Vaccinations According to a report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, only about two out of …
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