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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When we speak of avoiding or spreading germs, it’s important to be clear. “Germs” are microscopic organisms (also known as microbes) that are capable of causing disease. Germs — disease-causing bacteria, fungi, and viruses — are also called pathogens. It is definitely worthwhile to avoid contacting or spreading pathogens. To that end, we have assembled some suggestions for minimizing your …
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Human skin is a surprisingly flexible, resilient organ. It is also our primary interface with the external environment. Skin is literally the first line of defense against a wide array of potential threats from the environment. Although it is thin enough and sensitive enough to allow us to detect the lightest of touches, it is also strong enough to protect …
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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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Unfortunately, biking is also a common source of injuries. Assuming you or your children always wear a helmet when biking, the most common injuries you are likely to suffer are minor lacerations, bruises, possible fractures, abdominal injuries, or other “musculoskeletal traumas” from falls or collisions. Statistics suggest that male bikers traveling at high speeds are the riders most likely to …
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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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Caring 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 …
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Due to the risk of accidental drowning, responsible parents and caregivers would never dream of letting small children play in or near bodies of water unsupervised. Like all mammals, humans are “hard-wired” at birth to avoid drowning by automatically holding the breath whenever the face is submerged in water. But that doesn’t mean it’s not possible for babies and small …
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Now that summer is in full swing, there are more opportunities than ever for accidents to occur, especially during outdoor activities. If you or a loved one receives an unexpected blow to the head, you should be aware that it could result in a concussion. Concussion is a traumatic brain injury that results from a blow to the head or …
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