Chickenpox (Varicella)
For Everyone About Chickenpox KEY POINTS Chickenpox is a highly contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). The virus spreads mainly through close contact with someone who has chickenpox. The best way to prevent chickenpox is to get the chickenpox vaccine. MORE INFORMATION What it is Chickenpox is very contagious. Symptoms include an itchy, […]
Managing High Blood Pressure
For Everyone KEY POINTS Measuring your blood pressure is an important step toward controlling high blood pressure. If you have diabetes, you may also have high blood pressure. Making health lifestyle choices, such as getting regular physical activity and not smoking, can help keep your blood pressure levels healthy. Work with your health care team […]
Definition & Facts of Bladder Infection in Adults
In this section: What is a bladder infection? Does bladder infection have another name? How common are bladder infections? Who is more likely to develop a bladder infection? What are the complications of a bladder infection? What is a bladder infection? A bladder infection is an illness most often caused by bacteria that enter your bladder and […]
Facts About TBI
For Everyone KEY POINTS A TBI affects how the brain works. TBI is a major cause of death and disability. TBIs may be missed in older adults. A TBI may lead to short- or long-term health problems. A TBI during childhood may affect brain development. What it is A TBI affects how the brain works […]
Hot Weather Safety for Older Adults
Español Too much heat is not safe for anyone. It is even riskier if you are older or have health problems. It is important to be cautious and get relief quickly when you are overheated. Otherwise, you might start to feel sick or risk a heat-related illness that could cause serious health issues. Why can […]
What is Blood Cholesterol?
Español Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that your body needs for good health, but in the right amounts. Lipoproteins are small, round particles made of lipids (fats) and proteins . These particles carry cholesterol in your blood and throughout your body. Two types of lipoproteins include: Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), sometimes called “bad” cholesterol High-density lipoprotein […]
Types of Physical Activity And Your Heart
Español IN THIS ARTICLE Aerobic activity Muscle-strengthening activity Bone-strengthening activity Balance activities Flexibility activities The three main types of physical activity are aerobic, muscle strengthening, and bone strengthening. Balance and flexibility activities are also beneficial. Aerobic activity is the type that benefits your heart and lungs the most. By understanding the different types of […]
Fireworks
Posted July 1, 2022 JULY 1, 2022 For Everyone WHAT TO KNOW Summary: This blog discusses the safety and health issues with making and detonating fireworks. By: Jenny Topmiller, MS; RJ Matetic, MS, PhD; Gary Roth, MS, PhD; Richard Current, PE; and Adam Smith, PhD, Summary The blog content comes from the NIOSH Manufacturing Mondays […]
Cold Versus Flu
For Everyone AUG. 8, 2024 ESPAÑOL PURPOSE Influenza (flu) and the common cold are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. Colds and flu share many symptoms, so it can be difficult to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone. Cold symptoms are usually milder than flu. Special tests […]
Ebola Disease Basics
For Everyone JUNE 2, 2026 ESPAÑOL KEY POINTS Ebola disease is caused by an infection with an orthoebolavirus. Orthoebolaviruses are found primarily in sub-Saharan Africa. Orthoebolaviruses can cause serious and often deadly disease, with a mortality rate as high as 80-90%. Ebola does NOT spread the same way as respiratory viruses like flu and COVID. […]