Pneumococcal pneumonia is a severe respiratory infection caused by a bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae. Due to its high mortality and morbidity rates, especially among more vulnerable members of the population, it’s essential to consider vaccination as a way of preventing yourself from getting this disease. Previous pneumococcal vaccines helped to reduce cases, but still left gaps in protection. The Prevnar 20 and…
Infectious diseases can significantly impact your body’s immune system and overall function. Many people are surprised to learn about the effect that contagious diseases have on vision and eye health, leaving patients struggling for months and years after contracting a disease. Early detection and proper treatment can support you if you are diagnosed with any type of medical condition, especially…
Immunocompromised individuals in Tampa, FL and around the world face a range of challenges in their everyday lives and are at a higher risk of illness than a typical healthy adult or child. Immune systems play a critical role in our bodies by protecting us from diseases and infections. When working correctly, it helps to locate, identify, and remove germs…
Antibiotics play a critical role in modern medicine in fighting illnesses and infections and helping speed up recovery time for various diseases. With antibiotics being relied upon in the medical field more than ever before, antibiotic resistance is now a growing concern. Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria are exposed to too many antibiotics and alter themselves so that treatment is…
The Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) is a system that helps to monitor the safety of FDA-approved vaccines. The system works to report any adverse events after vaccination and is a significant tool for vaccine safety monitoring in the USA. It is a joint effort from the FDA and CDC to help monitor adverse events after vaccination. In a…
In the United States, Florida ranks as one of the top five states for the number of new and total HIV cases. If you have recently been diagnosed with HIV or have been living with HIV, it is essential to find the support you need to take control of your life and your health. By managing HIV effectively, you can…
Polio Then & Now Polio was once the most feared disease in the U.S. and although it has been around since ancient times, an epidemic in the late 40s and early 50s affected many people worldwide. Children under five years of age were mainly affected. Polio attacks the nervous system and can lead to spinal and respiratory paralysis and in…
Leishmaniasis, once seen primarily as a concern for travelers, has steadily surged in cases across the southern regions of the United States. Joining the roster of tropical threats, this new flesh-eating parasitic disease has emerged in Texas and Oklahoma and new studies suggest it might be present in other states including Florida. Leishmaniasis cases are linked to bites from female…
A comprehensive guide to understanding the Norovirus, its history, and effective treatment options. Meet Norovirus – the uninvited guest that turns your digestive system into a riotous rollercoaster ride. As the life of the party in all the wrong ways, this microscopic mischief-maker is a leading cause of gastroenteritis, or as it’s more commonly known, “everything-must-go-right-now-itis.” Each year, millions of…
