|
Influenza
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccination each year.
Every year in the United States, on average:
- 5% to 20% of the population gets the flu;
- more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu complications, and;
- about 36,000 people die from flu.
Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk for serious flu complications.
Physical Activity : “Energize Your Life”
Physical Acitivity is vital to good health and disease prevention. Physical activity is more than just "working out". Running, playing sports, jogging, dancing, walking, biking, planting a garden are all considered physical activities as well. Thus, phyiscal activity can be fun too. Click on the link above to learn more about what fun activities you can do to Energize your life.
Smoking Cessation
Are you thinking about finally quitting smoking? Do you know where to start or how to start? Need more information on the options available? There are so many ways one can quit smoking nowadays. They range from counseling to chewing gum or using patches. Not all methods work for everyone so trying to find the right method for youself is important.
Click on the link above to learn more about nonprescription options for those who want to stop smoking. |
Mumps
Minnesota has reported fewer than 10 cases each year for the past seven years, 1999 to 2005. In 2006, mumps outbreaks occurred in several states, starting with Iowa followed by Kansas, Nebraska, and Illinois. Minnesota also reported increased mumps activity; however, no community outbreaks or clusters were identified. The reason for the outbreak in Iowa has not been determined; however, the virus serotype matches the serotype circulating in recent outbreaks in the United Kingdom. Cases in Minnesota could be linked to the outbreak in Iowa or to other outbreaks. Continued success depends upon maintaining high immunization rates.
West Nile Virus
West Nile virus transmission has begun. WNV can cause serious, life-altering and even fatal disease, so it's worth it to take the time to prevent mosquito bites. Just one mosquito bite can transmit West Nile virus or other diseases.
One way to avoid mosquito bites is to put on insect repellent all the time; especially when you are planning to spent a lot of time outdoors or camping. Visit the link above to learn about other things you can do to prevent yourself and your family from getting the virus.
Nutrition
These days, a wealth of nutrition information is at your finger tips. From diet books to newspaper articles, everyone seems to have an opinion about what you should be eating. It’s no secret that good nutrition plays an essential role in maintaining health.
While you already know it is important to eat a healthy diet, you may find it more difficult to sort through all of the information about nutrition and food choices. Click on the link above to learn more about tips in actually developing habits to eat healthier. |
