Urgent Cares: A Convenient and Affordable Alternative to the Emergency Room

Urgent cares are a convenient and affordable alternative to the emergency room for non-life-threatening medical conditions. They offer a wide range of services, including: Treatment for minor injuries and illnesses X-rays and lab tests Prescription medications Stitches and casting Vaccinations Minor surgery Urgent cares are typically open seven days a week and offer extended hours, […]
About Heart Attack Symptoms, Risk, and Recovery

KEY POINTS A heart attack, also called a myocardial infarction, happens when a part of the heart muscle doesn’t get enough blood. Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the main cause of heart attack. What it is A heart attack, also called a myocardial infarction, happens when a part of the heart muscle doesn’t get enough […]
About Stroke

KEY POINTS Stroke causes parts of the brain to become damaged or die. Quick treatment is critical for stroke. There are two types of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic. A transient ischemic attack is sometimes called a “mini-stroke.” What it is A stroke, sometimes called a brain attack, occurs when something blocks blood supply to part […]
What Are PFAS?

En español Send us your comments (link sends e-mail) Chemicals called PFAS are sometimes in the news. PFAS stands for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances. PFAS are widely used and long-lasting. They’re found in everyday items like carpets, clothes, and cookware. They have many uses. For example, they can help keep food from sticking to packages and […]
Preventing Seasonal Flu

HIGHLIGHTS The best way to reduce your risk from seasonal flu and its potentially serious complications is to get a flu vaccine every year. This page has resources to help answer your questions about flu vaccines. Prevention steps and strategies Take time to get a flu vaccine. Everyone 6 months and older should get a […]
Disaster Preparedness Tips

Prepare to be self-sufficient for at least three days by putting together an emergency kit, including: non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, a portable, battery-operated radio or television, batteries, medicines, anti-bacterial hand wipes or gel, first aid kit, money, seasonal clothing, and sanitation supplies. Conduct practice drills so you and your family know the safe locations […]
Migraine Headache

Marco A. Pescador Ruschel; Orlando De Jesus. Author Information and Affiliations Last Update: July 5, 2024. Go to: Continuing Education Activity Migraine is a genetically influenced complex neurological disorder characterized by episodes of moderate-to-severe headaches, typically unilateral and frequently accompanied by nausea and heightened sensitivity to light and sound. These episodes, known as migraine attacks, can last […]
About Four Steps to Food Safety

AT A GLANCE Following four simple steps at home can help protect you and your loved ones from food poisoning. Prevent food poisoning – Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill. Prevention steps and strategies Clean: wash your hands and surfaces often. Germs that cause food poisoning can survive in many places and spread around your kitchen. […]
Ear Infection Basics

KEY POINTS Is your child’s ear hurting? It could be an ear infection. Some ear infections, in particular some middle ear infections, need antibiotic treatment, but many can get better without antibiotics. Talk to your child’s healthcare provider about the best treatment. Overview Children are more likely than adults to get ear infections. There are […]
Flu Activity Increases While Vaccination Lags

AT A GLANCE This spotlight article was published on November 27, 2023. Flu vaccination coverage among children overall is about 4 percentage points lower than the same time last season, as of November 4, 2023. Coverage among White and Black children is down by about 7 and 6 percentage points respectively. Flu vaccination coverage for […]