General Health Articles

In the News All About Monkeypox – Part I

You can’t turn on the television anymore without hearing about the latest infectious disease: Monkeypox. While there is a lot of information all over the Internet about Monkeypox, here we break down what you need to know, what you should do and how to prevent the spread of this disease.

So, what is Monkeypox?

According to the CDC, “Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It leads to rash and flu-like symptoms. Monkeypox was discovered in 1958 when two outbreaks of a pox-like disease occurred in groups of monkeys being used for research. It’s spread mainly through human contact with infected rodents but can sometimes be spread through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.”

How common is it?

Monkeypox is actually rare. But the number of cases is increasing in Africa, as well as in regions that haven’t seen these infections before. 

Where is it found? 

For decades, Monkeypox was only found in Africa. But 2022 has brought outbreaks to regions outside of Africa, like Europe, the Americas and Australia. 

Who is affected by Monkeypox? 

According to the CDC, “Anyone can get monkeypox. In Africa, most cases are among children under 15 years old. Outside of Africa, the disease appears to be more common in men who have sex with men, but there are numerous cases in people who don’t fall into that category.” 

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In the News Summer Health Tips – Part II

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Health Tip #4: Dehydration 

Dry mouth and eyes, dry skin, a condition where sweating nearly stops, muscle cramps, nausea, heart palpitations and light headedness. To prevent dehydration, drink water, clear broths, and any other water replacements that contain electrolytes, like Gatorade. To combat dehydration, try fluid replacement and control through diet and fever medication. 

Health Tip #5: Foot Infections 

Sweating and humidity can increase your chances of foot infection during summer.
To remedy a foot infection, there are several anti-bacterial powders available in medical stores. And scrub your feet and the toes thoroughly to wash off the bacteria. For severe cases of infection, consult a dermatologist.

Health Tip #6: Summer Diet 

It’s always a good idea to switch up your diet in the summertime to eat foods such as watermelon, yogurt, berries and other fruits and vegetables. Such foods are low in calories and additionally require very little energy for digestion. These foods taste better when chilled and are therefore traditionally eaten that way. Naturally, eating chilled low-calorie foods feel good in the summer months, too. 

Health Tip #7: Food Hygiene 

Many dangerous bacteria and viruses thrive in the summer months as the temperature is conducive for their growth. The bad bugs usually enter the body through food and water. This is why maintaining good food hygiene is crucial in this season.

In the News Summer Health Tips – Part I

While Summer brings longer days, more sunshine, and carefree vacations, Summer can also bring a plethora of problems when it comes to your health.

To stay healthy all summer long, we suggest practicing these Summer Health Tips and share them with your friends and family members.

Health Tip #1: Heat Stroke

Heat stroke, a severe form of hyperthermia, occurs “when the human body absorbs more heat than it can dissipate. This is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention.” The remedy: It is important to lower the temperature of the body, immerse yourself in ice if you must or take a cold shower. You can prevent heat stroke by wearing loose and light clothes, drink water and do not overexert yourself during summer.

Health Tip #2: Heat Cramps

Muscle pains or spasms usually occur in the abdomen, arms, or leg and usually occur in coordination with strenuous physical activity. Home remedies: Rest in a cool place. Drink clear juice or electrolyte-enriched drinks. Do not go back to strenuous activity even after cramps subside since it may lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. 

Health Tip #3: Heat Exhaustion

Heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, fainting, muscle cramps, and/or fainting are all signs of heat exhaustion.
The remedy:  Rest. Have a cool, non-alcoholic beverage, a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath. Wear light clothing if you plan to be in the sun all day.

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In the News Monthly Awareness – May Part II

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Raising funds for future research is a priority; people are made aware of progress being made towards a cure.

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic, life-threatening disease which affects the digestive and respiratory systems. CF occurs in about one in 3500 live births. In the US, approximately 30,000 people have CF, whilst over 10 million people carry the defective CF gene but have no symptoms.

Lyme Disease Awareness  

Supported by the Lyme Disease Foundation, Lyme Disease Awareness Month is a campaign which promotes preventative measures which can be taken against Lyme disease. Lyme disease is an acute inflammatory disease caused by the bite of a tick infected with the bacteria, Borrelia burgdorferi.

Lupus Awareness  

The aim of Lupus Awareness Month is to raise awareness and educate others about this life changing disease.

Lupus is an autoimmune disease. In a healthy immune system, the body produces antibodies which destroy unhealthy cells such as bacteria, viruses, and foreign waste. However, lupus causes an overactive immune system to produce auto antibodies which attacks healthy body tissue. This can affect most parts of the body including any organ.

While there are many more conditions that are promoted during the month of May, we hope that you have learned a little more about a few of these health issues and can help spread awareness to those you know and love.

In the News Monthly Awareness – May Part I

Every month of the year in the United States, Canada and even Worldwide, different health issues are promoted to spread awareness.  In the month of May, there are many conditions that are promoted. Here we break down the numerous issues and help you to learn more about why awareness is key to many of these conditions.

Asthma and Allergy Awareness-

Supported by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), this awareness event is held throughout the month of May to coincide with the peak season for asthma and allergy sufferers. In the US, approximately 25 million people have asthma of which almost 7 million are children.

Celiac Awareness   

Celiac Awareness Month is an event held throughout the United States each May and is supported by the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness (and other relevant organizations). In the United States, approximately 3 million people have celiac disease; 21 million people have this disease or are sensitive to gluten. Of the 3 million who have this disease only 5% know they have it. This awareness event aims, in part, to make more people aware that they may have this disease and that by eating gluten free foods, they can eliminate their symptoms. 

Cystic Fibrosis Awareness  

Cystic Fibrosis Month raises awareness about cystic fibrosis (CF). This month is sponsored by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF)

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