Search Results for: flu

Thimerosal is safe

Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines

Thimerosal is safe. It’s only used in some multi-dose flu shots and not in routine childhood vaccines. This week the newly appointed vaccine advisors to the CDC are expected to meet to vote on “recommendations regarding thimerosal containing flu vaccines.” [archived link] Thimerosal, also known as ethyl mercury [archived link], is a harmless preservative found Read more…

How can I protect myself from measles?

Infectious Diseases Vaccines

Vaccination is the safest option to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles. Even if you are unsure if you have natural immunity, have been vaccinated before or can’t be vaccinated, there may be options for you. Vaccination recommendations for the U.S.* (*if you live outside the U.S. recommendations might be different, so please Read more…

What is the CDC, and what does it do?

General Health

The CDC is part of the U.S. government that helps protect human health and prevent disease. Their primary role is to gather health data, analyze it, and offer recommendations and public health support. ➡️ What is the CDC? Nearly 80 years ago the CDC was started to help stop the spread of malaria. At that Read more…

Those Nerdy Girls and the Test to Treat Program

Infectious Diseases Testing and Contact Tracing

The Home Test to Treat program was a national telehealth pilot program to evaluate the effectiveness of home testing and treatment for COVID-19 and flu. It was a collaboration among NIH/NIBIB, ASPR, CDC, eMed, VentureWell, and UMass Chan Medical School. The program was available from August 2023-April 2024 and during that time, 80,000+ people enrolled Read more…

What is the latest on Bird Flu?

Infectious Diseases

Although dairy cattle and poultry continue to get infected and there are several more human cases, the risk to the general public is still low. Scientists and authorities are monitoring this closely and more testing of animals, humans and milk is underway. This information is correct as of January 13th, 2025, 12:00PM EST Avian influenza, Read more…

How can I stay healthy as I celebrate the holidays with my family and friends this season?

Infectious Diseases Staying Safe

How can I stay healthy as I celebrate the holidays with my family and friends this season? Signed, A concerned mom of teens in California To reduce your risk of getting sick while gathering with friends and family, use tried-and-true layers of protection. Vaccines, masking, ventilation, hand-washing, testing, and staying home all work together to Read more…

What is the latest on Bird Flu?

Infectious Diseases

Although dairy cattle and poultry continue to get infected and there are several more human cases, the risk to the public is considered low. Scientists and authorities are monitoring this closely and more testing of animals, humans and milk is underway. (This information is correct as of December 16, 2024, 1 pm EST) Avian influenza, Read more…

How long do flu shots last?

Infectious Diseases Vaccines

In general, you can count on 6 months of meaningful protection starting two weeks after you get your annual flu vaccine. Protection may wane earlier in older adults. Flu activity is just picking up now… it’s still a GREAT time to get your flu shot! Getting vaccinated in advance of flu season’s start ensures that Read more…

Do flu vaccines work?

Infectious Diseases Vaccines

Yes. Annual flu vaccines prevent hundreds of thousands of cases of flu and save thousands of lives every year. The answer to the question “how well do they work” isn’t black and white because it changes from year to year, and even sometimes within a season. But even in a year when the flu vaccine Read more…