Health And Fitness
Dept. of Public Health says one Iowan quarantined solely as Ebola precaution
The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) is updating the numbers of travelers who are currently being monitored for Ebola. As of November 6, 2014, 13 travelers, who were in the West African countries of Sierra Leone, Liberia or Guinea in the last 21 days, are now in Iowa. Twelve had low risk of having been exposed to Ebola in those countries, so they are being allowed to resume normal activities; however, IDPH has ordered them to self-monitor, meaning they are required to take their temperature twice a day and report their health status to public health.
What To Do When Your Throat Hurts
We’ve all had sore throats around this time of year. Your throat feels scratchy and may hurt when you swallow. What can you do to soothe a sore throat? And when is it a sign of a more serious infection?
Most sore throats are caused by viral infections such as the common cold or the flu. These throat problems are generally minor and go away on their own.
Heritage Area Agency on Aging Sponsors 'Wellness Day' for Caregivers
November 12 event to honor and support caregivers
The Heritage Area Agency on Aging is hosting its 13th annual “Caring for the Caregiver” event on November 12, 2014 in order to support and encourage caregivers of older adults in East Central Iowa. The all-day event is free for caregivers and driven towards promoting self-care through various therapeutic activities and informational speakers.
National Radiologic Technology Week
Virginia Gay Hospital will recognize the important role that imaging has had on the field of medicine during National Radiologic Technology Week, Nov. 2-8, 2014. The heart of “Rad Tech” Week is X-ray Discovery Day, observed on Nov. 8.
Medical imaging has grown by leaps and bounds since the X-ray was first discovered in 1895. According to Monica L.
Is It Strep Throat?
Strep throat is a common type of sore throat in children, but it's not very common in adults. Healthcare professionals can do a quick test to determine if a sore throat is strep throat and decide if antibiotics are needed. Proper treatment can help you feel better faster and prevent spreading it to others!
Many things can cause that unpleasant, scratchy, and sometimes painful condition known as a sore throat.
Two strains of flu reported in Iowa; vaccinations urged
Surveillance by the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) Iowa Influenza Surveillance Network shows while flu activity in the state is slowly increasing and remains low, there already are two strains of the virus circulating. “This is the perfect time to get your flu vaccination,” said IDPH Medical Director, Dr. Patricia Quinlisk. “Identification of two circulating strains by the State Hygienic Lab means that without a flu vaccination, an individual could become ill with the flu two different times.
How Sugars and Sweeteners Affect Your Health
Most of us love sweet foods and drinks. But after that short burst of sweetness, you may worry about how sweets affect your waistline and your overall health. Is sugar really bad for us? How about artificial or low-calorie sweeteners? What have scientists learned about the sweet things that most of us eat and drink every day?
Our bodies need one type of sugar, called glucose, to survive.
Understanding Breast Cancer
More women are beating breast cancer these days, in part because of improved treatments and screening. When abnormal tissue or cancer is found in its early stages, it may be easier to treat.
NIH-funded scientists are searching for better ways to diagnose, treat, and even prevent breast cancer. Some are studying cancer at the cellular level to learn which tumors pose little danger and can be left alone.
First Influenza (Flu) Cases Reach Iowa
Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced on October 14th that the State Hygienic Laboratory (SHL) had identified three cases of influenza in the state. While influenza activity remains at a low level, the identification of the first flu cases of the season indicates the virus is circulating in the state.
October marks the beginning of the influenza (flu) season and Virginia Gay Hospital and Clinics now has the seasonal vaccine available during special Flu Shot Clinics at the Vinton Family Medical Clinic. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Most children get restless, rowdy, or distracted at times. That’s all part of being a kid. But some kids have such trouble paying attention, staying focused, and finishing tasks that it interferes with their schoolwork, home life, and friendships. These difficulties might be signs of a developmental disorder called attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD.