Disinfect for Health

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has designated this week (Dec. 6-12) as National Influenza Vaccination Week to highlight the importance of ongoing efforts to vaccinate against influenza (flu) and to foster even greater efforts going forward. This year, National Influenza Vaccination Week serves as an important reminder to seek out the H1N1... Read More »

Doctors’ offices and hospitals are using “rapid influenza diagnostic tests” to identify the presence of the H1N1 flu in patients; however, these tests actually do a poor job of sniffing out H1N1 because the rapid test does not detect H1N1, only influenza A. A confirmatory test must be done to identify H1N1 – a strain of influenza A.... Read More »

Viruses are unwelcomed visitors in many households right now. I am frequently asked how to tell whether a family member is suffering from the flu or just a common cold. Some of the symptoms are similar, but others generally indicate one or the other of these illnesses. To help you evaluate your symptoms, I’ve created... Read More »

Do you cough without covering your mouth while standing in the lunch line? Or sneeze loudly into the air when squeezed onto the morning bus? Nearly all Americans (96 percent) have seen you do things like this – and a shocking three quarters (77 percent) say they are guilty themselves. Even with heightened concerns during... Read More »

Do you cough without covering your mouth while standing in the lunch line? Or sneeze loudly into the air when squeezed onto the morning bus? Nearly all Americans (96 percent) have seen you do things like this – and a shocking three quarters (77 percent) say they are guilty themselves. Even with heightened concerns during this year’s flu season, Americans admit that sleeves are a fine substitute for tissues; one in four wipes their nose on them. One in ten is even more gross; skipping sleeves altogether in favor of hands to wipe their nose and then… extending for a handshake or reaching for a door handle.... Read More »

What will you need to stay healthy and secure during a pandemic flu outbreak? Individuals and families should prepare for potential pandemic flu-related isolation from their communities for an extended period of time. Dr. Ralph's Flu Preparedness Closet is a helpful checklist of what you need to have on hand.... Read More »