Handwashing Revisited: Simple Hygiene Habits That Save Lives in Outbreaks
Introduction Handwashing is a simple habit that has saved many lives over centuries. People often forget how significant this practice is in stopping harmful germs. Routine hygiene steps—especially proper handwashing—lower transmission of flu, respiratory infections, and common pathogens like norovirus. ...
Read MoreIsolation vs Quarantine: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters
Introduction Disease outbreaks can disrupt societies rapidly. During these events, health officials often call for isolation or quarantine measures to limit the spread of harmful pathogens. While these terms might sound similar, they describe distinct but related strategies. Individuals, families,...
Read MoreEmergency Use Authorization: How Vaccines and Drugs Get Approved Fast in Crises
Introduction Medical emergencies can appear unexpectedly, affecting large populations and overwhelming healthcare services. During such times, public health leaders often seek faster ways to make new or experimental vaccines and drugs available. Traditional approval processes usually involve extensive testing and...
Read MoreContact Tracing Apps: Did Technology Help in COVID, and Will We Use It Again?
Introduction Contact tracing is an essential method to limit infectious diseases by identifying people exposed to an infected individual. Traditional contact tracing involves interviews, phone calls, and in-person follow-ups. This approach can be slow and resource-intensive, especially if an illness...
Read MoreFace Masks 101: N95, KN95, or Surgical — Which to Stock for Emergencies?
Introduction Face masks became a global focus during viral outbreaks. Whether for influenza, COVID-19, or other respiratory issues, masks help reduce the spread of infections. Different mask types offer varied levels of protection and comfort. In emergencies, it is important...
Read MoreBuilding a Home Quarantine Kit: Supplies You’d Need for the Next Pandemic
Introduction Pandemics can appear quickly and affect everyday routines on a global scale. During an infectious outbreak, many individuals need to restrict their movements at home, limit contact with public spaces, and ensure they have enough resources for a set...
Read MorePandemic Preparedness at Home: What We Learned from COVID-19
Introduction Pandemic preparedness involves readiness activities that protect individuals and communities from the spread of serious infectious diseases. The COVID-19 pandemic showed that everyone can take part in limiting infection rates, supporting mental health, and maintaining a reliable home environment. ...
Read MoreWater Retention
Water Retention What is water retention? This is a fairly common condition and can cause puffiness, weight gain, bloating, painful and swollen knees as well as breast tenderness. Ankles as well as swollen legs are common, particularly in women who...
Read MoreCarbon Monoxide Poisoning
What is Carbon monoxide Poisoning? Carbon monoxide is gas that can be toxic when inhaled in great amounts by humans and animals. This gas is colorless, odorless and does not have taste and is found higher than air. Accordingly, this...
Read MoreHow to Pop Your Ears
What is popping of ears? Popping of ears occur when the Eustachian tube opens to equalize the air pressure on both ears. Eustachian tube is connected to the middle ear where the pressure is contained. This popping also occurs every...
Read More