Evidence-Based Medical Knowledge You Can Trust
Infectious diseases are illnesses caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, spreading through contact, food, water, or vectors.
A young child with measles may have unknowingly spread the highly contagious illness to many people on Friday, January 9, at Fort Belvoir Community Hospital in Virginia. This information comes from a report released by state health officials on Sunday. The child, who is under four years old, had recently traveled abroad, likely exposing him … Read more
Influenza A virus is one of the most common and clinically significant causes of seasonal flu outbreaks worldwide. It is responsible for mild to severe respiratory illness and, in high-risk populations, can lead to hospitalization or death. Understanding what kills influenza A virus is essential for infection control, personal safety, and public health planning. This … Read more
Flu prevention in 2026 focuses on annual vaccination, layered personal protection, early risk identification, and protecting high-risk populations. This guide explains evidence-based strategies, new public-health realities, and practical steps for individuals and families. Introduction: Why Flu Prevention Still Matters in 2026 Influenza remains a major public health issue in the United States. Each year, seasonal … Read more
The Department of Agriculture has new dietary guidelines. They include a food pyramid that looks different from the one you might remember. Now, proteins and healthy fats take center stage. Grains? Not so much. These updates, revealed on January 7, mark a significant shift from earlier advice. The new food pyramid appears almost flipped compared … Read more
Many people are asking: is there a super flu going around? The term “super flu” is widely used online and in news headlines, but it is not a medical diagnosis. It usually describes seasons when many people get very sick at the same time with flu-like illnesses, have stronger symptoms, or take longer to recover. … Read more
Constipation symptoms are among the most common digestive complaints in adults and children. While occasional constipation can occur due to diet or lifestyle changes, persistent or worsening symptoms may indicate an underlying medical condition that requires attention. Understanding constipation symptoms in detail helps patients recognize when self-care is sufficient and when professional evaluation is necessary. … Read more
A nasal decongestant spray is a common over-the-counter medication used to relieve a blocked or stuffy nose. Nasal congestion occurs when blood vessels inside the nose swell due to inflammation, infection, allergies, or environmental triggers. These sprays act locally in the nasal passages and can provide rapid symptom relief compared to oral medications. Despite widespread … Read more
Yes. Influenza can cause death. Fatal outcomes usually occur due to complications such as pneumonia, respiratory failure, sepsis, or worsening of existing medical conditions. Understanding Influenza as a Serious Medical Disease Influenza, commonly called the flu, is an acute viral respiratory infection caused by influenza A and B viruses. It is often misunderstood as a … Read more
Yes. Influenza and flu are the same disease. “Flu” is the common, shortened name for influenza, a contagious viral respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. What Is Influenza? Influenza is an acute viral infection of the respiratory tract caused by influenza viruses. It primarily affects the nose, throat, and lungs. Key Medical Characteristics In clinical … Read more
Yes. COVID-19 can cause a skin rash. Skin findings are a recognized symptom of SARS-CoV-2 infection and may appear before, during, or after other symptoms. Rashes linked to COVID vary in appearance, timing, and severity. Some are mild and short-lived; others can signal immune or vascular involvement that requires medical attention. This article explains how … Read more
The question “are COVID vaccines safe” remains one of the most searched medical topics worldwide. Since late 2020, billions of COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered globally. Safety concerns range from short-term side effects to long-term health risks, fertility, heart conditions, and immune system effects. This article provides a medically grounded, evidence-based explanation of COVID-19 … Read more
Yes. COVID-19 can cause diarrhea. Gastrointestinal symptoms are a recognized clinical feature of SARS-CoV-2 infection and may occur alone or with respiratory symptoms. Understanding COVID-19 and the Digestive System COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. While initially classified as a respiratory illness, clinical evidence confirms that it frequently affects the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The … Read more
Intermittent fasting benefits come from when food is eaten rather than what food is eaten. Intermittent fasting (IF) is an eating pattern that alternates between periods of eating and periods of fasting. It does not prescribe specific foods. It defines time windows. Common intermittent fasting methods include: These approaches are studied mainly for metabolic health, … Read more
Influenza remains a significant health threat, especially for older adults. While the standard flu vaccine offers crucial protection, a new generation of vaccines—often referred to as “super flu” vaccines—provides an even stronger shield for the most vulnerable populations. This guide will explore what makes these vaccines different, why they are particularly important for seniors, and … Read more
Key Summary Amid the cold and flu season, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) has advised the public not to use nasal decongestant sprays for long periods, and called for clear instructions on packages limiting their usage. Using nasal sprays with xylometazoline – or its alternative spelling, oxymetazoline – for longer than a week might lead … Read more