Immune and infectious diseases Archive

Healthy aging and longevity

5 important blood tests beyond the basics

Published July 1, 2021

Five blood tests beyond basic blood work may be worth pursuing for older adults. For example, a test to determine one’s vitamin B₁₂ level might be helpful, since older adults sometimes have trouble absorbing that vitamin. Likewise, older adults have less ability to absorb sunlight through the skin, which may lead to less production of vitamin D. Other blood tests to consider include those for HIV or hepatitis C infection, and a test to measure fasting blood sugar.

Pediatric health

Children not yet vaccinated against COVID-19? What to do

Published June 21, 2021

Now that many people have been vaccinated against COVID-19, it feels like things are starting to return to something resembling normal. But because the vaccines have not yet been approved for those under 12, families with children under this age need to be careful and thoughtful as they plan summer activities.

Healthy aging and longevity

HIV rates rising: Could new forms of PrEP help?

Published June 18, 2021

Last year, approximately 1.7 million new HIV infections occurred worldwide, and rates of infection are also rising in parts of the US. While a daily pill known as PrEP can help prevent HIV, two new formulations could make it easier for a broader range of at-risk people to use.

Healthy aging and longevity

3 things you can do about shingles

Updated June 14, 2021

Diseases & Conditions

Shaking off shingles

Updated June 14, 2021

Shingles is a painful neurological condition that is more likely to attack as people age. Left untreated, it can increase risk for chronic pain, blindness, and other long-term health problems.

Healthy aging and longevity

Does exercise help protect against severe COVID-19?

Published June 9, 2021

A study examining data from a large health care provider on more than 48,000 people who had COVID-19 found that those were consistently inactive had a significantly higher risk of hospitalization or death, while those who engaged in more than 10 minutes of activity per week had some protection against severe illness or death, and people who were active for at least 150 minutes per week had the most protection.

COVID-19

COVID-19 vaccines: Safe and effective for American Indian and Alaskan Native communities

Published June 4, 2021

Concerns circulating about the effectiveness of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine in American Indian/Alaskan Native communities, compared to the other available vaccines for COVID-19, have been answered by responses from medical professionals within the Indigenous population, as well as by statistics showing that all three vaccines are safe and effective in people of all races and ethnic backgrounds.

Healthy aging and longevity

Should we track all breakthrough cases of COVID-19?

Published June 3, 2021

Despite the effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccines, a small number of people develop cases even after being fully vaccinated. Most of these "breakthrough" cases are mild or moderate, and the CDC has decided to track only the ones that require hospitalization, which has disadvantages.

Pediatric health

Summer camp: What parents need to know this year

Updated June 2, 2021

Many parents and children hope that this summer will allow a return to typical activities. For families who are considering summer camp for their children, adjustments and adaptations will need to be made because of COVID-19, and parents should be prepared to ask questions about planning and risk management.

Healthy aging and longevity

Can I see my grandkids?

Updated June 1, 2021

People who are vaccinated against COVID-19 can safely visit with family members who aren't vaccinated, provided they are not at high risk for severe illness and don't live with someone who is.

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