Why are we hearing so much about Mycoplasma Pneumoniae?
Families/Kids Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: Why are we hearing so much about Mycoplasma Pneumoniae? A: Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a type of bacteria that can cause respiratory infections, including cold or flu-like symptoms, bronchitis, and walking pneumonia. Since spring of 2024, cases have risen across the USA, particularly in those 2-4 years old. You may have seen news headlines recently or know someone Read more…
Are we really aging in bursts?
Aging Hot Health Topics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Are we really aging in bursts? We know, it feels true. But if you are reaching one of these aging milestones, don’t panic. A recent study in the journal Nature Aging made headlines claiming that rather than aging gradually, humans age in accelerated “bursts”- specifically at age 44 and 60. I saw this news all over my social media, mostly from Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 09/27/24 – What is mpox, and why is it in the news?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases Videos
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls and FactCheck.org talk about the mpox public health emergency. Hosted by: – Liz Marnik, PhD: Those Nerdy Girls & ScienceWhizLiz (@sciencewhizliz) – Jessica McDonald, PhD & Kate Yandell: FactCheck.org Always seek the advice of your health care provider with questions about your medical care. ➡️ 0:00-1:33 Welcome & Intros ➡️ 1:34-6:26 What Read more…
Can you detox your body with supplements or oils?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
No, unfortunately not. Supplements and oils sold as ‘detoxifying’ aren’t doing much for you, but the good news is, your body has many mechanisms to help it detox itself! You can support your body’s detox systems with lifestyle choices (like eating leafy greens and exercising). How exactly does your body detox? We’ve all wondered about Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
Should I get a water filter to remove PFAS from my water? Which type is best?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I get a water filter to remove PFAS from my water? Which type is best? Water filters are a wise investment if your tap water has potentially harmful levels of PFAS (a type of “forever chemical”). Roughly 5-10% of public water supplies in the United States have elevated PFAS levels (above the US EPA limits). Read more…
What are the nicotine vaping trends among young people?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Megan Reilly, Intern
Over the past decade, vape use has increased among young people in the US and is now far more popular than other types of nicotine or tobacco products. Increase in Vaping Among Young People According to the US National Youth Tobacco Survey of 2023, vapes (also called e-cigarettes) are by far the most popular nicotine or tobacco Read more…
Are we seeing more colorectal cancer cases in younger adults?
Clinical Symptoms General Health Hot Health Topics
Yes. There is a recent global uptick in colorectal cancer rates among adults under 50. If you are aged 45 or older (or <45 with increased risk of colorectal cancer due to family history or certain medical conditions), talk to your clinician about getting screened. In the US, colorectal cancer (CRC) – cancer that starts in Read more…
Who is most exposed to PFAS (forever chemicals)?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Chana Davis, PhD
Certain jobs and communities face higher exposure to PFAS (a type of forever chemical) and a higher risk of health impacts. Three jobs with higher exposure to PFAS are: firefighters, ski wax technicians, and chemical manufacturing workers. Communities near facilities that make or use PFAS may also have increased exposure. Those Nerdy Girls recommends caution, Read more…
Are there any updates on what’s happening with the current avian flu situation?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
This information is up to date as of May 29, 2024 at 12 pm EDT. Here is what’s new and what we know about the current HPAI/H5N1/avian/bird flu situation (We know, we know, how many names can one virus have?! Jeesh! In this post we will call it the avian flu unless quoting another source.) Read more…
Avian flu update – May 3, 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
The avian flu virus that has infected wild birds & mammals with recent spread to dairy cattle herds currently presents a low risk to human health but is an evolving situation that deserves monitoring. I recently heard Dr. Ashish Jha, former White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator (and excellent science communicator), say something like: “Highly pathogenic avian Read more…
Avian flu update – April 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The avian flu virus infecting dairy cattle herds, poultry, and many wild birds in the United States is an emerging situation with unanswered questions. At this point, no case of a human passing the virus along to another human has been identified. This means that it’s unlikely to become widespread among humans in its current Read more…
I heard that the FDA says decongestants don’t work. Should I stop taking them?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Decongestants containing phenylephrine don’t work, but those containing pseudoephedrine are still very effective. It might not be cold season quite yet, but a recent FDA review on a common decongestant called phenylephrine might have you worried that one of your favorite over-the-counter remedies should be tossed out. Walking down the pharmacy’s “cough and cold” Read more…
Q: Why are we hearing so much about Mycoplasma Pneumoniae? A: Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a type of bacteria that can cause respiratory infections, including cold or flu-like symptoms, bronchitis, and walking pneumonia. Since spring of 2024, cases have risen across the USA, particularly in those 2-4 years old. You may have seen news headlines recently or know someone Read more…
Are we really aging in bursts?
Aging Hot Health TopicsJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Are we really aging in bursts? We know, it feels true. But if you are reaching one of these aging milestones, don’t panic. A recent study in the journal Nature Aging made headlines claiming that rather than aging gradually, humans age in accelerated “bursts”- specifically at age 44 and 60. I saw this news all over my social media, mostly from Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 09/27/24 – What is mpox, and why is it in the news?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases Videos
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls and FactCheck.org talk about the mpox public health emergency. Hosted by: – Liz Marnik, PhD: Those Nerdy Girls & ScienceWhizLiz (@sciencewhizliz) – Jessica McDonald, PhD & Kate Yandell: FactCheck.org Always seek the advice of your health care provider with questions about your medical care. ➡️ 0:00-1:33 Welcome & Intros ➡️ 1:34-6:26 What Read more…
Can you detox your body with supplements or oils?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
No, unfortunately not. Supplements and oils sold as ‘detoxifying’ aren’t doing much for you, but the good news is, your body has many mechanisms to help it detox itself! You can support your body’s detox systems with lifestyle choices (like eating leafy greens and exercising). How exactly does your body detox? We’ve all wondered about Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
Should I get a water filter to remove PFAS from my water? Which type is best?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I get a water filter to remove PFAS from my water? Which type is best? Water filters are a wise investment if your tap water has potentially harmful levels of PFAS (a type of “forever chemical”). Roughly 5-10% of public water supplies in the United States have elevated PFAS levels (above the US EPA limits). Read more…
What are the nicotine vaping trends among young people?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Megan Reilly, Intern
Over the past decade, vape use has increased among young people in the US and is now far more popular than other types of nicotine or tobacco products. Increase in Vaping Among Young People According to the US National Youth Tobacco Survey of 2023, vapes (also called e-cigarettes) are by far the most popular nicotine or tobacco Read more…
Are we seeing more colorectal cancer cases in younger adults?
Clinical Symptoms General Health Hot Health Topics
Yes. There is a recent global uptick in colorectal cancer rates among adults under 50. If you are aged 45 or older (or <45 with increased risk of colorectal cancer due to family history or certain medical conditions), talk to your clinician about getting screened. In the US, colorectal cancer (CRC) – cancer that starts in Read more…
Who is most exposed to PFAS (forever chemicals)?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Chana Davis, PhD
Certain jobs and communities face higher exposure to PFAS (a type of forever chemical) and a higher risk of health impacts. Three jobs with higher exposure to PFAS are: firefighters, ski wax technicians, and chemical manufacturing workers. Communities near facilities that make or use PFAS may also have increased exposure. Those Nerdy Girls recommends caution, Read more…
Are there any updates on what’s happening with the current avian flu situation?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
This information is up to date as of May 29, 2024 at 12 pm EDT. Here is what’s new and what we know about the current HPAI/H5N1/avian/bird flu situation (We know, we know, how many names can one virus have?! Jeesh! In this post we will call it the avian flu unless quoting another source.) Read more…
Avian flu update – May 3, 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
The avian flu virus that has infected wild birds & mammals with recent spread to dairy cattle herds currently presents a low risk to human health but is an evolving situation that deserves monitoring. I recently heard Dr. Ashish Jha, former White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator (and excellent science communicator), say something like: “Highly pathogenic avian Read more…
Avian flu update – April 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The avian flu virus infecting dairy cattle herds, poultry, and many wild birds in the United States is an emerging situation with unanswered questions. At this point, no case of a human passing the virus along to another human has been identified. This means that it’s unlikely to become widespread among humans in its current Read more…
I heard that the FDA says decongestants don’t work. Should I stop taking them?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Decongestants containing phenylephrine don’t work, but those containing pseudoephedrine are still very effective. It might not be cold season quite yet, but a recent FDA review on a common decongestant called phenylephrine might have you worried that one of your favorite over-the-counter remedies should be tossed out. Walking down the pharmacy’s “cough and cold” Read more…
Are we really aging in bursts? We know, it feels true. But if you are reaching one of these aging milestones, don’t panic. A recent study in the journal Nature Aging made headlines claiming that rather than aging gradually, humans age in accelerated “bursts”- specifically at age 44 and 60. I saw this news all over my social media, mostly from Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 09/27/24 – What is mpox, and why is it in the news?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases VideosElisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls and FactCheck.org talk about the mpox public health emergency. Hosted by: – Liz Marnik, PhD: Those Nerdy Girls & ScienceWhizLiz (@sciencewhizliz) – Jessica McDonald, PhD & Kate Yandell: FactCheck.org Always seek the advice of your health care provider with questions about your medical care. ➡️ 0:00-1:33 Welcome & Intros ➡️ 1:34-6:26 What Read more…
Can you detox your body with supplements or oils?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
No, unfortunately not. Supplements and oils sold as ‘detoxifying’ aren’t doing much for you, but the good news is, your body has many mechanisms to help it detox itself! You can support your body’s detox systems with lifestyle choices (like eating leafy greens and exercising). How exactly does your body detox? We’ve all wondered about Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
Should I get a water filter to remove PFAS from my water? Which type is best?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I get a water filter to remove PFAS from my water? Which type is best? Water filters are a wise investment if your tap water has potentially harmful levels of PFAS (a type of “forever chemical”). Roughly 5-10% of public water supplies in the United States have elevated PFAS levels (above the US EPA limits). Read more…
What are the nicotine vaping trends among young people?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Megan Reilly, Intern
Over the past decade, vape use has increased among young people in the US and is now far more popular than other types of nicotine or tobacco products. Increase in Vaping Among Young People According to the US National Youth Tobacco Survey of 2023, vapes (also called e-cigarettes) are by far the most popular nicotine or tobacco Read more…
Are we seeing more colorectal cancer cases in younger adults?
Clinical Symptoms General Health Hot Health Topics
Yes. There is a recent global uptick in colorectal cancer rates among adults under 50. If you are aged 45 or older (or <45 with increased risk of colorectal cancer due to family history or certain medical conditions), talk to your clinician about getting screened. In the US, colorectal cancer (CRC) – cancer that starts in Read more…
Who is most exposed to PFAS (forever chemicals)?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Chana Davis, PhD
Certain jobs and communities face higher exposure to PFAS (a type of forever chemical) and a higher risk of health impacts. Three jobs with higher exposure to PFAS are: firefighters, ski wax technicians, and chemical manufacturing workers. Communities near facilities that make or use PFAS may also have increased exposure. Those Nerdy Girls recommends caution, Read more…
Are there any updates on what’s happening with the current avian flu situation?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
This information is up to date as of May 29, 2024 at 12 pm EDT. Here is what’s new and what we know about the current HPAI/H5N1/avian/bird flu situation (We know, we know, how many names can one virus have?! Jeesh! In this post we will call it the avian flu unless quoting another source.) Read more…
Avian flu update – May 3, 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
The avian flu virus that has infected wild birds & mammals with recent spread to dairy cattle herds currently presents a low risk to human health but is an evolving situation that deserves monitoring. I recently heard Dr. Ashish Jha, former White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator (and excellent science communicator), say something like: “Highly pathogenic avian Read more…
Avian flu update – April 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The avian flu virus infecting dairy cattle herds, poultry, and many wild birds in the United States is an emerging situation with unanswered questions. At this point, no case of a human passing the virus along to another human has been identified. This means that it’s unlikely to become widespread among humans in its current Read more…
I heard that the FDA says decongestants don’t work. Should I stop taking them?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Decongestants containing phenylephrine don’t work, but those containing pseudoephedrine are still very effective. It might not be cold season quite yet, but a recent FDA review on a common decongestant called phenylephrine might have you worried that one of your favorite over-the-counter remedies should be tossed out. Walking down the pharmacy’s “cough and cold” Read more…
Those Nerdy Girls and FactCheck.org talk about the mpox public health emergency. Hosted by: – Liz Marnik, PhD: Those Nerdy Girls & ScienceWhizLiz (@sciencewhizliz) – Jessica McDonald, PhD & Kate Yandell: FactCheck.org Always seek the advice of your health care provider with questions about your medical care. ➡️ 0:00-1:33 Welcome & Intros ➡️ 1:34-6:26 What Read more…
Can you detox your body with supplements or oils?
General Health Hot Health TopicsRebecca Raskin-Wish
No, unfortunately not. Supplements and oils sold as ‘detoxifying’ aren’t doing much for you, but the good news is, your body has many mechanisms to help it detox itself! You can support your body’s detox systems with lifestyle choices (like eating leafy greens and exercising). How exactly does your body detox? We’ve all wondered about Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
Should I get a water filter to remove PFAS from my water? Which type is best?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I get a water filter to remove PFAS from my water? Which type is best? Water filters are a wise investment if your tap water has potentially harmful levels of PFAS (a type of “forever chemical”). Roughly 5-10% of public water supplies in the United States have elevated PFAS levels (above the US EPA limits). Read more…
What are the nicotine vaping trends among young people?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Megan Reilly, Intern
Over the past decade, vape use has increased among young people in the US and is now far more popular than other types of nicotine or tobacco products. Increase in Vaping Among Young People According to the US National Youth Tobacco Survey of 2023, vapes (also called e-cigarettes) are by far the most popular nicotine or tobacco Read more…
Are we seeing more colorectal cancer cases in younger adults?
Clinical Symptoms General Health Hot Health Topics
Yes. There is a recent global uptick in colorectal cancer rates among adults under 50. If you are aged 45 or older (or <45 with increased risk of colorectal cancer due to family history or certain medical conditions), talk to your clinician about getting screened. In the US, colorectal cancer (CRC) – cancer that starts in Read more…
Who is most exposed to PFAS (forever chemicals)?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Chana Davis, PhD
Certain jobs and communities face higher exposure to PFAS (a type of forever chemical) and a higher risk of health impacts. Three jobs with higher exposure to PFAS are: firefighters, ski wax technicians, and chemical manufacturing workers. Communities near facilities that make or use PFAS may also have increased exposure. Those Nerdy Girls recommends caution, Read more…
Are there any updates on what’s happening with the current avian flu situation?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
This information is up to date as of May 29, 2024 at 12 pm EDT. Here is what’s new and what we know about the current HPAI/H5N1/avian/bird flu situation (We know, we know, how many names can one virus have?! Jeesh! In this post we will call it the avian flu unless quoting another source.) Read more…
Avian flu update – May 3, 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
The avian flu virus that has infected wild birds & mammals with recent spread to dairy cattle herds currently presents a low risk to human health but is an evolving situation that deserves monitoring. I recently heard Dr. Ashish Jha, former White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator (and excellent science communicator), say something like: “Highly pathogenic avian Read more…
Avian flu update – April 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The avian flu virus infecting dairy cattle herds, poultry, and many wild birds in the United States is an emerging situation with unanswered questions. At this point, no case of a human passing the virus along to another human has been identified. This means that it’s unlikely to become widespread among humans in its current Read more…
I heard that the FDA says decongestants don’t work. Should I stop taking them?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Decongestants containing phenylephrine don’t work, but those containing pseudoephedrine are still very effective. It might not be cold season quite yet, but a recent FDA review on a common decongestant called phenylephrine might have you worried that one of your favorite over-the-counter remedies should be tossed out. Walking down the pharmacy’s “cough and cold” Read more…
No, unfortunately not. Supplements and oils sold as ‘detoxifying’ aren’t doing much for you, but the good news is, your body has many mechanisms to help it detox itself! You can support your body’s detox systems with lifestyle choices (like eating leafy greens and exercising). How exactly does your body detox? We’ve all wondered about Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious DiseasesElisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
Should I get a water filter to remove PFAS from my water? Which type is best?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I get a water filter to remove PFAS from my water? Which type is best? Water filters are a wise investment if your tap water has potentially harmful levels of PFAS (a type of “forever chemical”). Roughly 5-10% of public water supplies in the United States have elevated PFAS levels (above the US EPA limits). Read more…
What are the nicotine vaping trends among young people?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Megan Reilly, Intern
Over the past decade, vape use has increased among young people in the US and is now far more popular than other types of nicotine or tobacco products. Increase in Vaping Among Young People According to the US National Youth Tobacco Survey of 2023, vapes (also called e-cigarettes) are by far the most popular nicotine or tobacco Read more…
Are we seeing more colorectal cancer cases in younger adults?
Clinical Symptoms General Health Hot Health Topics
Yes. There is a recent global uptick in colorectal cancer rates among adults under 50. If you are aged 45 or older (or <45 with increased risk of colorectal cancer due to family history or certain medical conditions), talk to your clinician about getting screened. In the US, colorectal cancer (CRC) – cancer that starts in Read more…
Who is most exposed to PFAS (forever chemicals)?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Chana Davis, PhD
Certain jobs and communities face higher exposure to PFAS (a type of forever chemical) and a higher risk of health impacts. Three jobs with higher exposure to PFAS are: firefighters, ski wax technicians, and chemical manufacturing workers. Communities near facilities that make or use PFAS may also have increased exposure. Those Nerdy Girls recommends caution, Read more…
Are there any updates on what’s happening with the current avian flu situation?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
This information is up to date as of May 29, 2024 at 12 pm EDT. Here is what’s new and what we know about the current HPAI/H5N1/avian/bird flu situation (We know, we know, how many names can one virus have?! Jeesh! In this post we will call it the avian flu unless quoting another source.) Read more…
Avian flu update – May 3, 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
The avian flu virus that has infected wild birds & mammals with recent spread to dairy cattle herds currently presents a low risk to human health but is an evolving situation that deserves monitoring. I recently heard Dr. Ashish Jha, former White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator (and excellent science communicator), say something like: “Highly pathogenic avian Read more…
Avian flu update – April 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The avian flu virus infecting dairy cattle herds, poultry, and many wild birds in the United States is an emerging situation with unanswered questions. At this point, no case of a human passing the virus along to another human has been identified. This means that it’s unlikely to become widespread among humans in its current Read more…
I heard that the FDA says decongestants don’t work. Should I stop taking them?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Decongestants containing phenylephrine don’t work, but those containing pseudoephedrine are still very effective. It might not be cold season quite yet, but a recent FDA review on a common decongestant called phenylephrine might have you worried that one of your favorite over-the-counter remedies should be tossed out. Walking down the pharmacy’s “cough and cold” Read more…
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Hot Health Topics Infectious DiseasesAndrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
Should I get a water filter to remove PFAS from my water? Which type is best?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I get a water filter to remove PFAS from my water? Which type is best? Water filters are a wise investment if your tap water has potentially harmful levels of PFAS (a type of “forever chemical”). Roughly 5-10% of public water supplies in the United States have elevated PFAS levels (above the US EPA limits). Read more…
What are the nicotine vaping trends among young people?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Megan Reilly, Intern
Over the past decade, vape use has increased among young people in the US and is now far more popular than other types of nicotine or tobacco products. Increase in Vaping Among Young People According to the US National Youth Tobacco Survey of 2023, vapes (also called e-cigarettes) are by far the most popular nicotine or tobacco Read more…
Are we seeing more colorectal cancer cases in younger adults?
Clinical Symptoms General Health Hot Health Topics
Yes. There is a recent global uptick in colorectal cancer rates among adults under 50. If you are aged 45 or older (or <45 with increased risk of colorectal cancer due to family history or certain medical conditions), talk to your clinician about getting screened. In the US, colorectal cancer (CRC) – cancer that starts in Read more…
Who is most exposed to PFAS (forever chemicals)?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Chana Davis, PhD
Certain jobs and communities face higher exposure to PFAS (a type of forever chemical) and a higher risk of health impacts. Three jobs with higher exposure to PFAS are: firefighters, ski wax technicians, and chemical manufacturing workers. Communities near facilities that make or use PFAS may also have increased exposure. Those Nerdy Girls recommends caution, Read more…
Are there any updates on what’s happening with the current avian flu situation?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
This information is up to date as of May 29, 2024 at 12 pm EDT. Here is what’s new and what we know about the current HPAI/H5N1/avian/bird flu situation (We know, we know, how many names can one virus have?! Jeesh! In this post we will call it the avian flu unless quoting another source.) Read more…
Avian flu update – May 3, 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
The avian flu virus that has infected wild birds & mammals with recent spread to dairy cattle herds currently presents a low risk to human health but is an evolving situation that deserves monitoring. I recently heard Dr. Ashish Jha, former White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator (and excellent science communicator), say something like: “Highly pathogenic avian Read more…
Avian flu update – April 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The avian flu virus infecting dairy cattle herds, poultry, and many wild birds in the United States is an emerging situation with unanswered questions. At this point, no case of a human passing the virus along to another human has been identified. This means that it’s unlikely to become widespread among humans in its current Read more…
I heard that the FDA says decongestants don’t work. Should I stop taking them?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Decongestants containing phenylephrine don’t work, but those containing pseudoephedrine are still very effective. It might not be cold season quite yet, but a recent FDA review on a common decongestant called phenylephrine might have you worried that one of your favorite over-the-counter remedies should be tossed out. Walking down the pharmacy’s “cough and cold” Read more…
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
Should I get a water filter to remove PFAS from my water? Which type is best?
General Health Hot Health TopicsChana Davis, PhD
Should I get a water filter to remove PFAS from my water? Which type is best? Water filters are a wise investment if your tap water has potentially harmful levels of PFAS (a type of “forever chemical”). Roughly 5-10% of public water supplies in the United States have elevated PFAS levels (above the US EPA limits). Read more…
What are the nicotine vaping trends among young people?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Megan Reilly, Intern
Over the past decade, vape use has increased among young people in the US and is now far more popular than other types of nicotine or tobacco products. Increase in Vaping Among Young People According to the US National Youth Tobacco Survey of 2023, vapes (also called e-cigarettes) are by far the most popular nicotine or tobacco Read more…
Are we seeing more colorectal cancer cases in younger adults?
Clinical Symptoms General Health Hot Health Topics
Yes. There is a recent global uptick in colorectal cancer rates among adults under 50. If you are aged 45 or older (or <45 with increased risk of colorectal cancer due to family history or certain medical conditions), talk to your clinician about getting screened. In the US, colorectal cancer (CRC) – cancer that starts in Read more…
Who is most exposed to PFAS (forever chemicals)?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Chana Davis, PhD
Certain jobs and communities face higher exposure to PFAS (a type of forever chemical) and a higher risk of health impacts. Three jobs with higher exposure to PFAS are: firefighters, ski wax technicians, and chemical manufacturing workers. Communities near facilities that make or use PFAS may also have increased exposure. Those Nerdy Girls recommends caution, Read more…
Are there any updates on what’s happening with the current avian flu situation?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
This information is up to date as of May 29, 2024 at 12 pm EDT. Here is what’s new and what we know about the current HPAI/H5N1/avian/bird flu situation (We know, we know, how many names can one virus have?! Jeesh! In this post we will call it the avian flu unless quoting another source.) Read more…
Avian flu update – May 3, 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
The avian flu virus that has infected wild birds & mammals with recent spread to dairy cattle herds currently presents a low risk to human health but is an evolving situation that deserves monitoring. I recently heard Dr. Ashish Jha, former White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator (and excellent science communicator), say something like: “Highly pathogenic avian Read more…
Avian flu update – April 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The avian flu virus infecting dairy cattle herds, poultry, and many wild birds in the United States is an emerging situation with unanswered questions. At this point, no case of a human passing the virus along to another human has been identified. This means that it’s unlikely to become widespread among humans in its current Read more…
I heard that the FDA says decongestants don’t work. Should I stop taking them?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Decongestants containing phenylephrine don’t work, but those containing pseudoephedrine are still very effective. It might not be cold season quite yet, but a recent FDA review on a common decongestant called phenylephrine might have you worried that one of your favorite over-the-counter remedies should be tossed out. Walking down the pharmacy’s “cough and cold” Read more…
Should I get a water filter to remove PFAS from my water? Which type is best? Water filters are a wise investment if your tap water has potentially harmful levels of PFAS (a type of “forever chemical”). Roughly 5-10% of public water supplies in the United States have elevated PFAS levels (above the US EPA limits). Read more…
What are the nicotine vaping trends among young people?
General Health Hot Health TopicsMegan Reilly, Intern
Over the past decade, vape use has increased among young people in the US and is now far more popular than other types of nicotine or tobacco products. Increase in Vaping Among Young People According to the US National Youth Tobacco Survey of 2023, vapes (also called e-cigarettes) are by far the most popular nicotine or tobacco Read more…
Are we seeing more colorectal cancer cases in younger adults?
Clinical Symptoms General Health Hot Health Topics
Yes. There is a recent global uptick in colorectal cancer rates among adults under 50. If you are aged 45 or older (or <45 with increased risk of colorectal cancer due to family history or certain medical conditions), talk to your clinician about getting screened. In the US, colorectal cancer (CRC) – cancer that starts in Read more…
Who is most exposed to PFAS (forever chemicals)?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Chana Davis, PhD
Certain jobs and communities face higher exposure to PFAS (a type of forever chemical) and a higher risk of health impacts. Three jobs with higher exposure to PFAS are: firefighters, ski wax technicians, and chemical manufacturing workers. Communities near facilities that make or use PFAS may also have increased exposure. Those Nerdy Girls recommends caution, Read more…
Are there any updates on what’s happening with the current avian flu situation?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
This information is up to date as of May 29, 2024 at 12 pm EDT. Here is what’s new and what we know about the current HPAI/H5N1/avian/bird flu situation (We know, we know, how many names can one virus have?! Jeesh! In this post we will call it the avian flu unless quoting another source.) Read more…
Avian flu update – May 3, 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
The avian flu virus that has infected wild birds & mammals with recent spread to dairy cattle herds currently presents a low risk to human health but is an evolving situation that deserves monitoring. I recently heard Dr. Ashish Jha, former White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator (and excellent science communicator), say something like: “Highly pathogenic avian Read more…
Avian flu update – April 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The avian flu virus infecting dairy cattle herds, poultry, and many wild birds in the United States is an emerging situation with unanswered questions. At this point, no case of a human passing the virus along to another human has been identified. This means that it’s unlikely to become widespread among humans in its current Read more…
I heard that the FDA says decongestants don’t work. Should I stop taking them?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Decongestants containing phenylephrine don’t work, but those containing pseudoephedrine are still very effective. It might not be cold season quite yet, but a recent FDA review on a common decongestant called phenylephrine might have you worried that one of your favorite over-the-counter remedies should be tossed out. Walking down the pharmacy’s “cough and cold” Read more…
Over the past decade, vape use has increased among young people in the US and is now far more popular than other types of nicotine or tobacco products. Increase in Vaping Among Young People According to the US National Youth Tobacco Survey of 2023, vapes (also called e-cigarettes) are by far the most popular nicotine or tobacco Read more…
Are we seeing more colorectal cancer cases in younger adults?
Clinical Symptoms General Health Hot Health Topics
Yes. There is a recent global uptick in colorectal cancer rates among adults under 50. If you are aged 45 or older (or <45 with increased risk of colorectal cancer due to family history or certain medical conditions), talk to your clinician about getting screened. In the US, colorectal cancer (CRC) – cancer that starts in Read more…
Who is most exposed to PFAS (forever chemicals)?
General Health Hot Health TopicsChana Davis, PhD
Certain jobs and communities face higher exposure to PFAS (a type of forever chemical) and a higher risk of health impacts. Three jobs with higher exposure to PFAS are: firefighters, ski wax technicians, and chemical manufacturing workers. Communities near facilities that make or use PFAS may also have increased exposure. Those Nerdy Girls recommends caution, Read more…
Are there any updates on what’s happening with the current avian flu situation?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
This information is up to date as of May 29, 2024 at 12 pm EDT. Here is what’s new and what we know about the current HPAI/H5N1/avian/bird flu situation (We know, we know, how many names can one virus have?! Jeesh! In this post we will call it the avian flu unless quoting another source.) Read more…
Avian flu update – May 3, 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
The avian flu virus that has infected wild birds & mammals with recent spread to dairy cattle herds currently presents a low risk to human health but is an evolving situation that deserves monitoring. I recently heard Dr. Ashish Jha, former White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator (and excellent science communicator), say something like: “Highly pathogenic avian Read more…
Avian flu update – April 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The avian flu virus infecting dairy cattle herds, poultry, and many wild birds in the United States is an emerging situation with unanswered questions. At this point, no case of a human passing the virus along to another human has been identified. This means that it’s unlikely to become widespread among humans in its current Read more…
I heard that the FDA says decongestants don’t work. Should I stop taking them?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Decongestants containing phenylephrine don’t work, but those containing pseudoephedrine are still very effective. It might not be cold season quite yet, but a recent FDA review on a common decongestant called phenylephrine might have you worried that one of your favorite over-the-counter remedies should be tossed out. Walking down the pharmacy’s “cough and cold” Read more…
Certain jobs and communities face higher exposure to PFAS (a type of forever chemical) and a higher risk of health impacts. Three jobs with higher exposure to PFAS are: firefighters, ski wax technicians, and chemical manufacturing workers. Communities near facilities that make or use PFAS may also have increased exposure. Those Nerdy Girls recommends caution, Read more…
Are there any updates on what’s happening with the current avian flu situation?
Hot Health Topics Infectious DiseasesMK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
This information is up to date as of May 29, 2024 at 12 pm EDT. Here is what’s new and what we know about the current HPAI/H5N1/avian/bird flu situation (We know, we know, how many names can one virus have?! Jeesh! In this post we will call it the avian flu unless quoting another source.) Read more…
Avian flu update – May 3, 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
The avian flu virus that has infected wild birds & mammals with recent spread to dairy cattle herds currently presents a low risk to human health but is an evolving situation that deserves monitoring. I recently heard Dr. Ashish Jha, former White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator (and excellent science communicator), say something like: “Highly pathogenic avian Read more…
Avian flu update – April 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The avian flu virus infecting dairy cattle herds, poultry, and many wild birds in the United States is an emerging situation with unanswered questions. At this point, no case of a human passing the virus along to another human has been identified. This means that it’s unlikely to become widespread among humans in its current Read more…
I heard that the FDA says decongestants don’t work. Should I stop taking them?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Decongestants containing phenylephrine don’t work, but those containing pseudoephedrine are still very effective. It might not be cold season quite yet, but a recent FDA review on a common decongestant called phenylephrine might have you worried that one of your favorite over-the-counter remedies should be tossed out. Walking down the pharmacy’s “cough and cold” Read more…
This information is up to date as of May 29, 2024 at 12 pm EDT. Here is what’s new and what we know about the current HPAI/H5N1/avian/bird flu situation (We know, we know, how many names can one virus have?! Jeesh! In this post we will call it the avian flu unless quoting another source.) Read more…
Avian flu update – May 3, 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious DiseasesAndrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
The avian flu virus that has infected wild birds & mammals with recent spread to dairy cattle herds currently presents a low risk to human health but is an evolving situation that deserves monitoring. I recently heard Dr. Ashish Jha, former White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator (and excellent science communicator), say something like: “Highly pathogenic avian Read more…
Avian flu update – April 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The avian flu virus infecting dairy cattle herds, poultry, and many wild birds in the United States is an emerging situation with unanswered questions. At this point, no case of a human passing the virus along to another human has been identified. This means that it’s unlikely to become widespread among humans in its current Read more…
I heard that the FDA says decongestants don’t work. Should I stop taking them?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Decongestants containing phenylephrine don’t work, but those containing pseudoephedrine are still very effective. It might not be cold season quite yet, but a recent FDA review on a common decongestant called phenylephrine might have you worried that one of your favorite over-the-counter remedies should be tossed out. Walking down the pharmacy’s “cough and cold” Read more…
The avian flu virus that has infected wild birds & mammals with recent spread to dairy cattle herds currently presents a low risk to human health but is an evolving situation that deserves monitoring. I recently heard Dr. Ashish Jha, former White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator (and excellent science communicator), say something like: “Highly pathogenic avian Read more…
Avian flu update – April 2024
Hot Health Topics Infectious DiseasesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
The avian flu virus infecting dairy cattle herds, poultry, and many wild birds in the United States is an emerging situation with unanswered questions. At this point, no case of a human passing the virus along to another human has been identified. This means that it’s unlikely to become widespread among humans in its current Read more…
I heard that the FDA says decongestants don’t work. Should I stop taking them?
General Health Hot Health Topics
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Decongestants containing phenylephrine don’t work, but those containing pseudoephedrine are still very effective. It might not be cold season quite yet, but a recent FDA review on a common decongestant called phenylephrine might have you worried that one of your favorite over-the-counter remedies should be tossed out. Walking down the pharmacy’s “cough and cold” Read more…
The avian flu virus infecting dairy cattle herds, poultry, and many wild birds in the United States is an emerging situation with unanswered questions. At this point, no case of a human passing the virus along to another human has been identified. This means that it’s unlikely to become widespread among humans in its current Read more…
I heard that the FDA says decongestants don’t work. Should I stop taking them?
General Health Hot Health TopicsAndrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Decongestants containing phenylephrine don’t work, but those containing pseudoephedrine are still very effective. It might not be cold season quite yet, but a recent FDA review on a common decongestant called phenylephrine might have you worried that one of your favorite over-the-counter remedies should be tossed out. Walking down the pharmacy’s “cough and cold” Read more…
A: Decongestants containing phenylephrine don’t work, but those containing pseudoephedrine are still very effective. It might not be cold season quite yet, but a recent FDA review on a common decongestant called phenylephrine might have you worried that one of your favorite over-the-counter remedies should be tossed out. Walking down the pharmacy’s “cough and cold” Read more…
