Influenza...
COVID-19...
RSV...
Colon Cancer Prevention...
Other Seasonal Concerns...
This fall and winter brings the increased risk of respiratory illnesses including Influenza, RSV and COVID. You can take steps to prevent and minimize these respiratory illnesses and receive treatment should you contract one or more of these viruses.
Influenza
Influenza is diagnosed via rapid nasal swabbing. This virus is highly contagious and easily spreads when the air is cold and dry. Symptoms may include cold symptoms, body aches, sore throat and high fever. Treatment includes supportive care and anti-viral medication given at the early onset of symptoms. The CDC recommends a flu vaccine for individuals 6 months or older. The vaccines are trivalent, protecting against the 3 most common viral strains. You may call our office to schedule a vaccine or receive administration at your next scheduled office visit.
COVID-19
Covid is diagnosed via nasal swabbing and can be completed at home. This virus is highly contagious and easily spread amongst large and small close gatherings. Symptoms may include cold and sinus congestion, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, diarrhea, and fever. Prevention and symptom minimization includes the new monovalent covid vaccine given to individuals receiving the original two dose vaccines previously. Treatment includes supportive care, increased hydration and if needed, Paxlovid or Lagevrio given at the early onset of symptoms.
RSV
Respiratory Syncytial Virus is diagnosed via nasal swabbing. This virus can cause severe disease with respiratory distress, cough, and fever in children under the age of two. This virus may spread to adults. Premature infants at high risk may receive monthly prophylactic Palivizumab injections during RSV season. RSV vaccines and monoclonal antibodies are available. The vaccine is indicated for adults 75 years and over, especially those with underlying lung, heart, liver, or kidney disease.
Colon Cancer Prevention
5% of Americans will develop Colon Cancer and 2.5% will die from Colon Cancer. Prevention and early detection are the keys to decreasing incidence and death. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recently lowered their recommendations to start universal screening at 45 years of age. Individuals with a family history of colon cancer or adenomatous polyps should begin screening at age 40. Screening test include: Colonoscopy, Cologuard or FIT testing. Colonoscopy allows for the detection and removal of polyps during the same procedure. Cologuard and FIT will require a follow up Colonoscopy if positive. Please speak with your clinician about colon cancer prevention at your next annual prevention physical.
Other seasonal concerns:
Winter is a big season for slips and falls. These mishaps may result in fractures, sprains, strains, bruises, and contusions. Falls can be prevented with proper planning and prevention with your clinician during your next annual prevention visit.
Decreased balance or weakness in your legs may also contribute to falls. Exercise and or physical therapy can help to improve balance and strength needed to prevent falls. Our team can treat your injuries or assist you with setting up a fall prevention plan for yourself or loved ones.
*Information found for the website was obtained from the CDC and American Academy of Family Medicine.
