RedCrossPhillyBlog

Category: Disease Prevention

  • Diary of a Nurse: Addressing obesity now can reduce the risk of serious health problems in the future

    By Haley Heisley

    Graphic that reads "Diary of a Nurse"

    “Hi, my name is Haley, and I will be your nurse today!”

    I introduce each article this way every month since that is how I introduce myself to each of my patients when I begin a shift. I started this blog once I graduated nursing school back in May 2024, and I am currently a few weeks into starting in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

    I have met so many patients between my nursing clinical and shifts as a nurse that shared with me their concerns of how they never knew about certain diseases or the prevention of them before they were diagnosed. Now, as they lay in a hospital bed, I educate them on the maintenance and care that each diagnosis needs. Some of these diagnoses are not just the flu or something acute, but rather something like diabetes that is a chronic condition my patients will now have to live with for the rest of their lives. It is sad to just provide education once disaster or a crisis already had struck. I started this column with the hopes of providing education before the hospital and to hopefully even be able to prevent that trip to the emergency room in the first place. 

    As we approach the November and December holidays, one thing that is guaranteed – besides the family time, time off work/school, presents, and maybe some snow – is that there will be a lot of food. We deserve to enjoy this time of year and to indulge in these meals and desserts, but as the New Year approaches, how many of us really stick to our resolutions of wanting to eat healthier and work out?

    Obesity is something that needs to be discussed globally. If you struggle with your weight, you are definitely not alone. In fact, obesity affects 2 in 5 adults in the United States. 

    The Cleveland Clinic categorizes obesity like this:

    • Class I obesity: BMI 30 to less than 35 kg/m² (kilograms per square meter).
    • Class II obesity: BMI 35 to less than 40 kg/m².
    • Class III obesity: BMI 40+ kg/m².

    A BMI of 30 or higher in adults is considered being obese. But when you think about the BMI scale, it’s important to remember it doesn’t accurately predict specific health risks.

    Public domain photo by Pixabay

    Now I do not bring this topic up because of how obesity alters one’s appearance, because that would not be a health discussion. Obesity can alter one’s mental health and self-esteem, and it really increases the risk of serious medical conditions.

    Obesity is directly linked to hypertension, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, strokes, sleep apnea, reproductive issues, kidney disease, asthma, infertility and even certain cancers. The scary part is how each of these diagnosis’ have complications in themselves that can lead to more and more problems if uncontrolled. 

    A lot of things, some even out of our control, can cause obesity. Certain medications, disabilities, diets and genetics play a big role in cause of obesity. Lack of sleep, lack of physical activity and increased stress also have a correlation to obesity. Be sure to visit your primary care provider if you are concerned, because sometimes obesity can even be caused by underlying health issues. 

    While doing further research, Cleveland Clinic discusses in great depth the metabolic changes that happen to your body with obesity, which in turn can cause the previously discussed health issues.

    According to the Cleveland Clinic:

    Your metabolism is how your body converts calories into energy to fuel your body. When your body has more calories than it can use, it converts the extra calories into lipids and stores them in your body fat. When you run out of tissue to store lipids, the fat cells themselves become enlarged. Enlarged fat cells secrete hormones and other chemicals that cause inflammation.

    Inflammation can lead to insulin resistance so your body can’t use insulin to lower the sugar and fats in your blood. High levels of sugar and fats in your blood lead to high blood pressure. Combined, these conditions lead to metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a common factor in obesity.”

    Diet and exercise are the main treatments that we can even start now. We don’t have to schedule an appointment, wait in a waiting room, go to the ER or even buy special supplements to change our diet and our physical activity. Always be sure to go to your primary care provider for at least your yearly physical examinations to compare your weight over the years and for them to diagnose obesity and plan the care and management with you. 

  • Food safety tips for the Big Game

    By Susan West

    Uncle Mike’s Super Bowl party was legendary. People raved about the wings, the nachos, the game, everything… until the next day. Unfortunately for Mike and his guests, foodborne pathogens had crashed the party. He could have saved everyone a lot of gut misery if he’d just taken a few precautions. Here are a few easy ways to avoid the same fate.

    Before the big day: Avoiding cross-contamination starts in your shopping cart. Keep raw meats apart from produce, and grab a food thermometer while you’re in the store. When you get home, stash everything in its own area, and get to cleaning. (Don’t forget the bathroom. Make sure it has soap, wipes, and paper towels.)

    CDC graphic: Rules of the Game for Food Safety – Keep it Clean. Before you eat or handle food, wash your hands, food prep tools and surfaces.

    Food prep time: Start by washing your hands for at least 20 seconds. Then rinse your produce, and if you’re handling raw meat or chicken, use a separate knife and cutting board. As you prep your protein, grab the thermometer; it’s your only tool for making sure your wings or meat are cooked. Place the probe in the thickest part of the wing, avoiding the bone. The temp should be 165°F. Check multiple wings, not just one.

    Buffet basics: Super Bowl Sunday is notorious for foodborne illnesses, because people tend to leave munchies out for hours. Don’t do that. (That was Uncle Mike’s big mistake!) Keep buffet portions small, and replenish often so bacteria can’t thrive. Two hours is the maximum safe time for leaving food at room temperature. Set a timer to remind yourself. Set out individual utensils and small plates—no double dipping, folks!

    CDC graphic: Rules of the Game for Food Safety – Watch the clock. Throw out perishable food that has been sitting at room temperature for more than two hours; one hour if it’s 90 degrees F or warmer.

    The numbers: Keep hot foods hot (140°F minimum), and cold foods cold (40°F or colder). Ordering takeout? You’re not off the hook; use the same precautions noted above.

    The chafing dish, slow cooker, and warming tray are your friends. For cold foods like salsa or guac, nest serving dishes in bowls of ice. If you plan on serving food for the whole game, hold back half of the food in the fridge or oven. Serve half your food as the game starts, and swap it out at halftime.

    CDC graphic: Rules of the Game for Food Safety – Serve at the right temperature. Keep hot foods at 140 degrees F or warmer, and cold foods at 40 degrees F or colder.

    After the party: If you accidentally left perishable food at room temp for too long, toss it. (This includes meat, chicken, turkey, seafood, eggs, dairy, cut fruit, cooked rice, and leftovers.) Refrigerate or freeze leftovers immediately—it’s OK to put hot foods directly into the refrigerator! Your leftovers will last three or four days in the fridge, max. Hungry the morning after? Reheat leftovers to at least 165°F. This includes leftovers warmed up in the microwave.

    Sadly, Uncle Mike’s party is no longer an annual bash. Make yours an event to remember, for all the right reasons!

  • January is Glaucoma Awareness Month

    By George Edwards

    Prevent Blindness graphic – Glaucoma is irreversible. Early Diagnosis is important. Get your vision checked today and visit PreventBlindness.org/glaucoma.

    Our sight is a critical aspect of our health, but we often overlook the importance of taking care of our eyes until it’s too late. Each year, the month of January is dedicated to raising awareness about an increasingly common and debilitating eye condition known as glaucoma.

    Glaucoma causes damage the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. It’s estimated that over 3 million Americans have the disease, and if left untreated it can cause progressive vision loss and even blindness. During National Glaucoma Month, health care professionals encourage the public to reflect about the importance of regular eye exams and preventative eye care measures.

    Because there are no early symptoms, it is recommended that adults over the age of 40 schedule an eye exam with an optometrist or ophthalmologist, who can then recommend how often to have your eyes tested. Individuals with medical conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure, those with a family history of glaucoma, and people of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent may need to have their eyes examined more frequently.

    All of this may sound a little frightening because there is no cure for glaucoma, but the good news is there are preventive steps you can take to help ensure a lifetime of good eye health.

    These include:

    • Exercise regularly: Engaging in moderate physical activities, such as walking or swimming, can improve blood flow and decrease pressure inside your eyes. Be mindful to consult a health care provider before starting any new exercise regimen.
    • Eat a nutritious diet: Foods rich in antioxidants, such as leafy green vegetables, fruits, and fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, have been shown to benefit eye health.
    • Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: Smoking and heavy drinking can significantly increase your risk of developing glaucoma. Quitting smoking and drinking only in moderation is crucial to preserving your vision.
    • Wear sunglasses: Ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the eyes. Invest in a good pair of sunglasses that provide Ultraviolet protection and wear them when you are outdoors.
    • Know Your Family History: Studies have shown glaucoma has a genetic component, so It is important to know your family’s eye health history before meeting with your doctor.
    • Follow Medication Instructions: If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma, your doctor may prescribe you eye drops or oral medication. It’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding medication to slow down the progression of the disease.

    It is never too early to take steps to protect your eyes. By spreading awareness and encouraging regular eye exams, we can detect glaucoma in its early stages and prevent additional vision loss. Schedule an eye exam and join the fight against glaucoma this January.

  • National Heart Month: Take control of your heart health with Life’s Essential 8

    By Kyra Cummings

    “Heartbeat” by Mick Lissone, published under CC0 Public Domain license.

    February is National Heart Month! This is the perfect opportunity to start taking control of your heart health! Luckily, the American Heart Association makes it easy to know where to start. Developed by the American Heart Association, Life’s Essential 8 encompasses both health behaviors and health factors to help you take control of your cardiovascular health. Investing in your heart health now helps lower the risk for adverse health outcomes such as heart disease and stroke.

    Recently, in 2022 five updates were made to Life’s Essential 8 that include sleep as a component of heart health, a new guide to assess diet, vaping, and secondhand smoke, adjustments to cholesterol and blood sugar measures, and scores each component to average an overall heart health score on a scale from 0-100.

    Here are Life’s Essential 8 and some ways you can follow:

    1. Eat Better

    Eating better starts with knowing what choices to select! The American Heart Association has a Heart-Check mark certification making it easy to locate in the grocery store. The American Association even has cookbooks to help you navigate a heart-healthy diet to fit your needs.

    2. Be More Active

    The American Heart Association shares that adults should get a weekly total of a minimum of 150 minutes of light activity or 75 minutes of intense activity and kids should get at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day. Setting goals, being persistent, and walking more are among the various tips for success in being more active. The American Heart Association has resources to help you get started in fitness, stick to habits, start workouts, and get active.

    3. Quit Tobacco

    The use of cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and vaping is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States. About one-third of children ages 3-11 in the United States are either exposed to secondhand smoke or vape themselves. This can be significantly reduced by implementing strategies to quit tobacco. Make a plan to quit by setting a date, choosing a method, deciding if you need help from a provider, preparing yourself by removing triggers that may inhibit urges, and quit on your own time.

    Need more resources to quit? Check out the American Heart Association’s Fact Sheet.

    4. Get Healthy Sleep

    Many people disregard the power of sleep as it relates to health, the right amount of sleep promotes healing and minimizes the risk for chronic disease including cardiovascular disease, dementia, depression, high blood pressure, and obesity. Adequate sleep also improves brain function. Adults should be getting about 7-9 hours of sleep each night and children should get 10-16 hours each night.

    For more information, check out the American Heart Association’s Tips for Success.

    5. Manage Weight

    Weight management is one of the most important factors in maintaining good heart health. Weight management includes some of the other Essential 8s such as eating better and getting more active. Other tips for weight management include medical professional consults and learning your Body Mass Index (BMI) to set a healthy goal weight.

    6. Control Cholesterol

    Managing your cholesterol aids in reducing the risk of heart disease. Medical professionals can help you track your cholesterol levels and help you make a plan to control them. Here are additional resources to help you understand cholesterol. Tips to reduce cholesterol are a part of other Essential 8s including eating healthy, being more active, and quitting nicotine. Other tips include taking medication if needed and knowing your fats.

    7. Manage Blood Sugar

    Managing blood sugar is not only good for heart health but also helps control pre-diabetes and diabetes. Living with diabetes increases your chances of heart disease and stroke. Medical professionals can help you track your levels, and you can help yourself by eating better, staying active, managing your weight, and quitting nicotine.

    If you think you may be at risk for diabetes, check out the YMCA and CDC-approved Diabetes Prevention Programs in your area.

    If you have Type 2 diabetes, check out these resources to help manage your diabetes and reduce your risks for adverse heart outcomes.

    8. Manage Blood Pressure

    The first step in managing your blood pressure is understanding your readings and blood pressure categories. The top number in the reading is systolic and measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats. The bottom number is diastolic and measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart is resting. Blood pressure readings are characterized by the numbers displayed in the ratio.

    Check out this link for the category breakdown.

    By following 5 of the Essential 8s you are already on the right track in managing your blood pressure. Eating better, being more active, managing weight, quitting nicotine, and sleeping well all aid in the management of blood pressure.

    For more information check out the American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8 page.

  • Keep your eyes out for National Eye Care Month

    By Nathan Fligelman

    “Optometrist Diopter In A Laboratory” by Alex Grichenko, published under CC0 Public Domain license.

    January is the month during which National Eye Care and National Glaucoma Awareness is observed. Your eyes serve as a pair of critical organs which, through conveying the action of sight, are giving you the opportunity to see and further read this very article!

    Due to their heightened level of importance, as well as their relative sensitivity to damage and irritation, it’s crucial that you take care of your eyes on a daily and consistent basis. To ‘observe’ this month, learn and spread awareness of safe practices regarding the eye, visit an optometrist/ophthalmologist, and ensure that your eyes get the proper rest that they require.

    Get an eye check-up

    In order to help spread awareness for this month, many eye-health clinics and hospitals offer discounts for annual checkups held during January. But it’s important to care for your eyes year-round, not just in January! During a checkup, a licensed professional will correct any vision loss and scan your eyes for potential symptoms of deterioration/illness. Early detection of potentially serious eye-health issues is of the utmost importance.

    Glaucoma scans can save your sight

    Glaucoma scans are an important of most eye exams. About three million Americans have been diagnosed glaucoma, a potentially genetic disease known for being a “sneak thief of sight.” Glaucoma attacks the optic nerve of the eye (by the force of pressure) in a chronic and progressive manner. This disease is partly dangerous because over a third of a person’s vision may be lost as a result of the damage before they even notice that it is gone. Glaucoma, thus, is the second-leading cause of blindness across the world. While modern medical advances have improved Glaucoma treatment, it is still extremely important for everyone to be tested for this condition on a consistent and early basis.

    Update your prescriptions

    On a more general note, it is also important to visit an eye doctor for yearly (at least) general checkups in order to ensure that your vision is proper. Many people wear glasses and contacts to help them see in a much more proficient and comfortable fashion. Generally, a person’s vision tends to deteriorate as they get older; hence, there is a continuous need for follow-up appointments and potential prescription revisions/new lens provisions.

    Overall, it is critical to take care of your eyes; ‘eye’ highly recommend that you preemptively schedule your next care appointment in the near future!

    Fun eye facts

    • Opticians help to correct vision problems through fitting the lenses of glasses/contacts. Optometrists perform preliminary eye exams and vision tests, as well as can prescribe medications. Ophthalmologists continue upon the work of optometrists, as well as additionally perform procedures.
    • The world’s most common eye color is brown.
    • Ancient sunglasses existed as far back as 20 centuries ago!
    • The average human eye blinks over 4 million times throughout the duration of a year.

  • THANK YOU, Volunteers: You ARE the American Red Cross

    By Sukripa Shah

    It’s been quite a year. The coronavirus pandemic has had a huge impact on all of us — individuals, communities, and the nation as a whole. The fear of illness, the toll on our physical and mental health, and the burden of job insecurity have all left an indelible mark. But now, with spring and a rousing vaccine rollout, we’re finally seeing a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel. Sure, it’s not over. We’re still getting back on our feet. But we’re seeing shots going in arms all across Pennsylvania. That alone has reignited hope for a better future in 2021.

    At the Philadelphia Convention Center, vaccine recipients expressed the same hope and optimism as they lined up to get their COVID-19 shots. And you — the Red Cross volunteers of Southeastern Pennsylvania — were on hand to help. Thank you, volunteers, for your time, energy, and dedication to keeping our communities, families, and children safe.

    Volunteers at the convention center vaccine event filled a variety of nonmedical roles:

    • Access and functional needs: Addressing any language, mobility, or behavioral health needs and connecting people to the appropriate resources 
    • Greeting and traffic flow: Keeping the mood upbeat while reminding those in line to stay socially distanced 
    • Registration station: Directing new arrivals to registration tables 
    • Wellness checkpoint: Asking pre-vaccine wellness screening questions 
    • Appointment verification: Checking appointments in the PrepMod system 
    • Observation/PrepMod and 2nd appointment registration: Directing first-dose recipients to make an appointment for their second
    • Exit guide: Maintaining orderly exit protocols

    Because of Red Cross volunteers, medical professionals at the event were able to focus on their area of expertise: getting people vaccinated! We’re grateful to all of you for your valuable support in inoculating hope and courage into the people of our neighboring cities and counties. Thank you! 

    Primary image description: Three Red Cross volunteers of Southeastern Pennsylvania wearing masks and social distancing stand in front of a Red Cross disaster relief vehicle near the Pennsylvania Convention Center’s COVID-19 vaccine clinic in Philadelphia, PA. In front of the volunteers is a table with a red tablecloth with the Red Cross logo on it, holding bottles of water and snacks.

  • Make a New Year’s Resolution with the American Red Cross

    By: Marta Rusek

    Let’s face it, 2020 was a tough year. It challenged us to rethink our day-to-day priorities and taught us hard truths about not taking good fortune for granted. It gave us new gratitude and empathy. But now that we’ve turned the corner, let’s slam the door on the past and look forward to 2021. That means resolutions!

    Sure, the resolution is a bit of a January cliche. By whatever word you use—goal, aspiration, dream, ambition—a resolution is a motivator. Are you seeking a satisfying way to learn something new, cross off long-postponed items on your to-do list, and find your passion through a life-changing cause? Look no further than the American Red Cross.

    The Red Cross’s vast network of resources can connect you with classes to prepare you for emergencies at home and out in the world, plus opportunities to make a difference based on your interests, skills, and schedule. Here are a few ideas to consider:

    • Prepare for an emergency at home and on the go. It’s never too early to plan for potential disaster, and the Red Cross has you covered with Emergency Preparedness Kits for every situation. So be proactive: Pick up your very first emergency kit, or stock up on supplies to stash in your car for inclement weather or a natural disaster. To get started, browse the Emergency Preparedness section of the Red Cross store.
    • Take a First Aid/CPR/AED class. Knowing how to save a life or help dress a wound are essential skills to know, even during a pandemic. Getting a First Aid/CPR/AED certification now is also a good idea, so that when social distancing is no longer necessary and folks with your skillset are needed, you’ll be ready! The Red Cross offers several options in-person, online, and hybrid classes that are a combination of both. Once you complete the course, you will receive a digital certificate for First Aid/CPR/AED that will be valid for two years. Find a class here.
    • Become a volunteer. Did you know that 90 percent of the people behind the Red Cross are unpaid? Volunteerism benefits everyone, and that’s especially true when you’re with the Red Cross. Whatever your skill level, you will be welcomed as a volunteer. You’ll receive in-depth training and have access to a wealth of learning opportunities, and the new skills you acquire can be put to good use in a variety of areas—disaster response, support for military service members, blood drives, and even communications and public relations. (The article you’re reading now was written by a volunteer!) If you’re 18 or older and looking to serve your community and gain leadership skills that will take you far, you can’t go wrong with one of the nation’s best volunteer-led humanitarian organizations. Begin your volunteer journey on our website here.

    When you make your resolution with the Red Cross happen, we want to know about it! Post your story about volunteering, giving blood, or taking a class with the Red Cross on social media with the hashtag #RedCrossResolution and tag @RedCrossPhilly on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Your example just may inspire your loved ones to do the same!

    Main image description: Two Red Cross volunteers wearing face masks work together to load life-saving supplies onto a truck.

    Secondary image description: Several sticky notes with New Year’s resolutions on a wall, with phrases like “Be happy!”, “Exercise more,” “Eat Healthier,” and “Save Money.” In the center is “Donate Blood,” with a large red arrow pointing to it. On the righthand side is a red block with the Red Cross log and text in white letters that reads: “May we suggest a resolution?”

  • Flu Season is Coming: Here’s How to Stay Safe

    By Sam Antenucci

    Flu Safety Tips from the American Red Cross: Handle your own belongings Wash your hands often with soap and water Carry hand sanitizer and anti-bacterial wipes with you

    What’s the biggest health story of 2020? That’s an easy one. COVID-19 has overstayed its welcome, and it’s stubbornly sticking around. But guess what? Here comes fall and winter, and another health hazard looms on the horizon: seasonal influenza. Sure, flu viruses circulate every year, but it’s important to understand that you can contract COVID-19 and flu at the same time. So it’s especially important to take proper precautions to enjoy a healthy season this year.

    The single most important protective step you can take now—before flu season is in full swing—is to make sure you’re vaccinated. Each year, a unique flu vaccine is developed by researchers and virologists after months of surveillance data review. They select the three or four viruses most likely to spread and among people during the coming season. Flu viruses are constantly changing, so the vaccine must also change annually.

    The flu vaccine cannot cause flu. The vaccine itself typically contains a killed version of the virus that is used to train your white blood cells to recognize the prevailing flu viruses and kill them before they get the chance to take over and infect your healthy cells.

    The vaccine is overwhelmingly safe and highly effective. It keeps millions of us out of bed each year. The CDC estimates that during 2018-2019, flu vaccination prevented an estimated 4.4 million illnesses, 2.3 million medical visits, 58,000 hospitalizations, and 3,500 deaths—all flu-related. And it’s especially important for kids to get the shot: Children ages 6 months up to their 5th birthday—even those who are healthy—are at high risk for serious flu complications simply because of their age.

    With this in mind and the pandemic front and center, flu vaccination is critical—not only for your own health but also the health of the people you care about. The CDC recommends an annual flu shot for everyone 6 months of age and older, with rare exceptions. If you have severe, life-threatening allergies, or a condition that compromises your immune system, seek clearance from your doctor first.

    Ways to Keep Flu at Bay
    You can prevent the spread of influenza within your family and community by taking these small precautions:

    • Wash your hands often; if soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
    • Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose, and mouth
    • As always, maintain your social distancing practices. Wear a mask in public and keep at least six feet from others. If you’re feeling sick, stay home.

    In addition to vaccination and safe hygiene practices, good health habits will fortify your body’s resistance to infection. A few tips:

    • Turbocharge your diet with vegetables and nutrient-dense foods. (Need ideas? Check out these CDC Nutrition Guidelines.)
    • Hydrate! Reach for a glass of water at regular intervals throughout the day.
    • Try to maintain an exercise regimen—ideally, at least 30 minutes a day.
    • Manage your stress. This is especially important during these unpredictable times. For some useful advice on stress management, see American Red Cross’s Coping with Stress.
    • Get enough rest and sleep.

    Flu Symptoms
    If you’re feeling ill, you might wonder whether you have the flu or another condition that mimics seasonal influenza. The pandemic complicates that uncertainty, so it’s especially important to observe how you’re feeling. If you get a lot sicker, consider getting a COVID test. The CDC notes that many flu symptoms are also common with COVID-19. These include…

    • Fever (though not in every flu case)
    • Chills
    • Cough
    • Sore throat
    • Runny or stuffy nose
    • Muscle aches, body aches
    • Headache
    • Fatigue
    • Vomiting and/or diarrhea (more common in children)

    The difference between COVID-19 and Influenza
    The flu symptoms listed above can range from mild to severe. COVID-19, on the other hand, may bring symptoms that are more severe and cause serious illness. One symptom unique to coronavirus is a loss of taste and smell. If at any point your symptoms intensify and impact your ability to breathe, call your doctor and get a COVID test.

    Caring for Someone with the Flu
    If you’re in a multi-person household and someone becomes sick with any of the symptoms listed above, designate one person to look after him or her. Keep everyone’s personal items separate. Avoid sharing utensils, towels, clothes, blankets, sheets, or food. When cleaning up any bodily fluids, wear disposable gloves.

    To learn more about keeping yourself safe during the pandemic and flu season, download one or more of the free Red Cross mobile apps from the Apple App Store or Google Play. For descriptions, just go to redcross.org, click on Get Help, and select Mobile Apps from the dropdown menu.

    Keep the Faith!
    Sure, 2020 has been a challenging year. The pandemic has caused stress and confusion for everyone. Don’t let it get the best of you! You are not alone. With sensible precautions, we can support one another and clear these hurdles together!

    Lead Image description: A design with a mug, a box of tissues, some loose tissues, and a pair of glasses next to a red box with text that reads: Flu Safety Tips. Tips include – Handle your own belongings, Wash your hands often with soap and water, Carry hand sanitizer and anti-bacterial wipes with you.