Tag List

October 23, 2020

In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, health care professionals are uncertain what the flu season will look like this year. Due to the similarity of symptoms, it may be hard to tell the difference between flu and COVID-19 based on symptoms alone. Eleni Miller, DO, a pediatrician at University of Utah Health, answers questions about influenza and the flu vaccine.

October 20, 2020

Halloween is approaching and children are looking forward to putting on their costumes and receiving candy from neighbors. However, trick-or-treating may look a little different this year due to COVID-19 risks associated with traditional Halloween activities. Infectious Diseases doctors at University of Utah Health offer advice to celebrate Halloween safely this year.

October 14, 2020

As we learn more about COVID-19, the virus is being associated to several medical conditions and complications in patients that have been infected. A recent study found gum disease can be associated with severe COVID-19 outcomes and other medical conditions.

October 05, 2020

COVID-19 cases are rising in Utah and there’s many questions surrounding coronavirus vaccinations. Healthcare professionals at University of Utah Health are continuously learning about the new disease. Hannah Imlay, MD, infectious diseases physician at U of U Health provides information about the novel virus.

September 30, 2020

As flu season approaches, University of Utah Health is preparing guidelines for how to evaluate and determine whether a patient has COVID-19 or influenza. The coronavirus pandemic has made it difficult to tell the difference between the two viruses due to an overlap of symptoms. Here are some frequently asked questions about influenza.

September 29, 2020

When the SARS-CoV-2 virus, or COVID-19, was first identified, it was associated as a respiratory disease due to symptoms that impacted the lungs. Scientists and doctors have since discovered the virus causes complications to other organs of the body, including the heart. While research is ongoing to understand the long-term effects of COVID-19, cardiologists are learning more about the effects on the cardiovascular system.

September 03, 2020

This Labor Day weekend, millions of Americans are looking to squeeze in one more vacation as summer comes to an end. Since travel increases a person’s risk for COVID-19, it’s important to be cautious and practice good hygiene to help reduce transmission of the virus if you decide to travel.

August 26, 2020

Wildfires are becoming more common and severe due to climate change and warmer and drier conditions in the West. As wildfire season rages in Utah, California, and other parts of the United States, people are also at increased risk for COVID-19 infection due to wildfire smoke.

August 25, 2020

Whether you have COVID-19 (coronavirus) or someone you live with does, you need to take care of yourself and your household. Use these 10 tips to take care of yourself and those you live with.

August 17, 2020

As the virus that causes COVID-19 continues to evolve, experts at University of Utah Health are learning more about the new disease. Emily Spivak, MD, associate professor in the Division of Infectious Diseases at U of U Health, provides information about the virus.

August 11, 2020

Infectious Disease doctors at University of Utah Health held a Q&A panel about COVID-19 and the potential impact it could have on students, teachers, and families when they return to school. The process of returning to school has caused concerns for parents and teachers. The decision to open classrooms and the guidelines put in place by school districts can influence the safety and well-being of those in the education system.

August 10, 2020

As healthcare professionals continue to learn about the virus that causes COVID-19, many parents are tasked with the decision of sending their child to school. Adam Hersh, MD, is a professor of pediatric infectious diseases specializing in epidemiology at University of Utah Health. He answered questions about COVID-19 and returning back to school.

August 03, 2020

Kids and adults are spending more screen time at home as the COVID-19 pandemic stretches into the new school year. One of the side-effects may be eye strain in the form of blurry vision, dry eyes, or even headaches. Griffin Jardine, MD, an ophthalmologist at the Moran Eye Center at the University of Utah, offers tips for avoiding the strain.

July 17, 2020

The number of coronaviruses cases in Utah continue to rise, and hospitals are on the verge of ICU capacity. Doctors at University of Utah Health say there are two things we can all easily do to stop the spread of COVID-19: physical distance and wear a mask. Russell Vinik, MD, chief medical operations officer at U of U Health answered questions about COVID-19 and shared the latest information about the virus.

July 16, 2020

While the mouth and nose are thought to be the main entry points for catching the coronavirus, there’s also concern about the risk of contracting COVID-19 through the eyes. Experts at the Moran Eye Center at the University of Utah offer tips about when and where you should consider wearing goggles or wrap-around safety glasses for protection.

July 09, 2020

On March 13, Clement Chow found himself on the leading edge of a tidal wave as one of the first COVID-19 cases in Utah. Read his survivor story and about the work of physicians and scientists at University of Utah Health who are working hard to bring us to the other side of the pandemic.

July 08, 2020

When coronavirus, or COVID-19, first impacted the United States earlier this year, similarities in symptoms of influenza and coronavirus made it difficult to tell the difference between the viruses. Both are contagious respiratory illnesses, but there are some key differences between the two.

June 24, 2020

If you wear glasses and are helping slow the spread of coronavirus by wearing a mask, you’ve probably experienced foggy lenses the moment you put on the mask. What to do? An optical shop expert at the John A. Moran Eye Center shares some tips.

June 23, 2020

Although it's not thought to be the main way of spread, it is possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching food or food packaging, that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes. It is always important to follow good food safety practices to reduce the risk of illness from common foodborne pathogens.

June 22, 2020

In the past week, Utah saw an increase number of COVID-19 cases and concerns have grown about individuals not wearing a face mask in public. There are also new questions about an inflammatory drug called dexamethasone that’s being used in trials to treat COVID-19 patients. Richard Orlandi, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Ambulatory Health at University of Utah Health answered questions about COVID-19 and the shared the latest information about what’s known about COVID-19 to date.

June 17, 2020

As nationwide protests of the police and institutional racism continue in the wake of George Floyd's death, officials are reminding demonstrators that COVID-19 remains a threat to Americans' health and spreads easily in large crowds. If you are planning to protest, follow these tips to reduce the risk of spreading the virus and to be safe in general.

June 17, 2020

If you wear glasses and are helping slow the spread of coronavirus by wearing a mask, you’ve probably experienced foggy lenses the moment you put on the mask. What to do? An optical shop expert at the John A. Moran Eye Center shares some tips.

June 15, 2020

Kelly Baron, PhD, MPH, DBSM, associate professor in the department of Family & Preventive Medicine at University of Utah Health, is conducting a research study on how sleep is affecting people's routines and offers us some advice on best ways to improve our sleep.

June 15, 2020

Coronavirus (COVID-19) is an illness caused by a virus that can spread to person to person. The virus that causes COVID-19 is a new coronavirus, and health experts continue to learn about it every day. Sankar Swaminathan, MD, Chief of the Division of Infectious Diseases at University of Utah Health answered questions about COVID-19 and the shared the latest information about what’s known about COVID-19 to date.

June 08, 2020

As medical experts continue to study and learn more about COVID-19, current available information and clinical expertise found older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions to be at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19.

June 05, 2020

Are homemade face masks a good idea? The CDC recommends that homemade cloth mask covers can help slow the spread of COVID-19 in a community. Mask covers can limit the spread of germs from the mask wearer to others by helping block large droplets from coughs and sneezes. 

June 02, 2020

This guidance is intended for people living together in close quarters, such as people who share a small apartment, or for people who live in the same household with large or extended families.

May 29, 2020

Social distancing amid the COVID-19 pandemic poses unique challenges for the blind and visually impaired. Experts and patients at the Moran Eye Center at the University of Utah discuss the challenges and how to help.

May 26, 2020

When you can be around others (end home isolation) depends on different factors for different situations. Find CDC’s recommendations for your situation below.

May 22, 2020

Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a new type of health condition associated with COVID-19 that’s being diagnosed among a small number of children across the world. A panel of University of Utah Health and Primary Children’s Hospital experts answered questions about what is known about MIS-C so far.

May 15, 2020

COVID-19 is a new disease and there is limited information regarding risk factors for severe disease. Based on currently available information and clinical expertise, older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions might be at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19.

May 06, 2020

The CDC recommends that homemade cloth mask covers can help slow the spread of COVID-19 in a community. Mask covers can limit the spread of germs from the mask wearer to others by helping block large droplets from coughs and sneezes.

May 04, 2020

Utah state liquor stores are seeing a spike in sales during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many are turning to alcohol for a variety of reasons. Some of it may be about stockpiling—but there can be cause for concern of substance abuse.

April 29, 2020

Although it has yet to be proven, growing anecdotal evidence backed by emerging epidemiological findings suggests that anosmia—the loss of the sense of smell—could be one of the earliest telltale indicators of the viral disease in some people.

April 29, 2020

Suggested metadata: Are contact lens wearers at higher risk for coronavirus infection since they may touch their eyes more than average? Experts at the Moran Eye Center at the University of Utah offer facts and hygiene tips that should ease concerns of contact lens and eyeglass wearers alike.

April 27, 2020

Do you find yourself placing the back of your hand on your forehead to gauge your temperature? You are not alone. High temperature is an indicator that you might be falling ill. It is also one of the more common symptoms of COVID-19.

April 20, 2020

While we are concerned about COVID-19 and it's impact on our health, we may have other health issues that need to be addressed. After a change in hospital policies, how do we continue to seek care? Learn about the different resources still available at University of Utah Health.

April 17, 2020

Most people who get sick with COVID-19 will have only mild illness and should recover at home. Care at home can help stop the spread of COVID-19 and help protect people who are at risk for getting seriously ill from COVID-19.

April 16, 2020

Should you worry if conjunctivitis, known as pink eye, could be a symptom of coronavirus? Experts at the Moran Eye Center at the University of Utah discuss the rare association between pink eye and COVID-19 and offer tips for what to do if you or a family member has pink eye.

April 16, 2020

Washing our hands is one of the effective ways of preventing the spread of COVID-19, particularly after using the restroom, coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. However, frequent handwashing can lead to red, itchy or even cracked skin. Here's what a dermatologist recommends is the best way to wash and care for your hands.

April 15, 2020

Also called immunity testing or serological testing, antibody testing tells you if you had been infected in the past by the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 (also referred to as SARS CoV-2).

April 15, 2020

In this time of COVID-19, many of us have experienced a loss of control, a great sense of vulnerability for ourselves and others, and a whirlwind of challenging emotions. Here's how mindfulness—a practice of paying attention to present moment experiences with curiosity and compassion—can help.

April 14, 2020

Spring is in full bloom. But thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us are having a hard time enjoying the outdoors. Yet health experts say fresh air and exercise are important right now. So how can we be active in a responsible and respectful fashion?

April 12, 2020

Medical advice to stop rubbing your eyes is more important than ever with the COVID-19 pandemic. Experts at the Moran Eye Center at the University of Utah tell you why touching your eyes can be dangerous and offer tips to reduce your chances of coronavirus infection.

April 10, 2020

As communities across the United States take steps to slow the spread of COVID-19 by limiting close contact, people are facing new challenges and questions about how to meet basic household needs, such as buying groceries and medicine, and completing banking activities.

April 10, 2020

Springtime brings some special holidays, with colorful festivities, family gatherings, and messages of peace. This year, however, things might be looking a little different. Try some of the following ideas to celebrate Easter or Passover in quarantine style.

April 10, 2020

The coronavirus epidemic is posing new challenges to eating well, from empty shelves to making fewer trips to the store. Here are some ideas to help you and your loved ones maintain good nutrition while sheltering in place.

April 07, 2020

Since the Heroes Work Here signage rolled out, many people have been asking for a version to use at home, so the U of U Health team made it happen with the "Thanks Health Heroes" signs.

March 31, 2020

Across the country, there are orders to stay home or shelter in place to slow the spread of COVID-19. But how that is practiced is often subject to interpretation. Read about what University of Utah Health experts say is safe.

March 31, 2020

Worries have emerged about whether a pet can become infected and spread coronavirus, or COVID-19. There are some coronaviruses that infect animals, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has not received any reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19.

March 30, 2020

If someone in your workplace becomes ill with the cold, flu, or COVID-19 it's important to clean the work space thoroughly. To stop the spread of germs and to prevent others from getting sick there's important steps to take to help protect others. 

March 26, 2020

As a family, you can plan and make decisions now that will protect you and your family during a COVID-19 outbreak. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has made a checklist of important steps families can prepare for now if a family member or relative becomes infected.

March 24, 2020

Tips to keep children healthy while school’s out.

March 24, 2020

If a COVID-19 outbreak happens in your community, it could last for a long time. Depending on the severity of the outbreak, public health officials might recommend community actions to reduce exposures to COVID-19. These actions can help slow the spread of COVID-19 and reduce the impact of disease.

March 23, 2020

Many might wonder whether their itchy throat or runny nose could mean something other than an allergic reaction. Could it be COVID-19? Let’s break down the facts.

March 23, 2020

In the space of a week, social distancing, working from home, and attending classes online quickly became our new reality. As towns and cities go quiet, many businesses are closing their doors for the foreseeable future. That means gyms are no longer an option, and many are itching to know how to continue their workouts either in the confines of their own home or in their neighborhood.

March 20, 2020

Physical distancing can help slow the spread of coronavirus and keep high-risk populations safe. “You’re staying home to protect the most vulnerable,” says Emily Spivak, associate professor in the Division of Infectious Diseases at University of Utah Health. “It’s part of our civic duty.”

March 19, 2020

Your sister is calling, so you pick up. She is crying. She thinks she has the coronavirus (COVID-19). After calming her down, you find out that she called her doctor and they refused to test her. What do you do?

March 17, 2020

Just like the virus itself, emotional stress seems to be spreading alongside the coronavirus outbreak. You may feel fatigued, have difficulty sleeping, or experience a loss of appetite. This is a completely normal human reaction, and there is no “right” way to respond in times of uncertainty.

March 17, 2020

In a coordinated effort to contain the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, government agencies have recommended against large gatherings for the foreseeable future. On Monday, March 16, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the White House issued a joint advisory recommending against any gatherings of 10 or more people over the next 15 days.

March 17, 2020

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared a pandemic due to the rapidly evolving coronavirus, or COVID-19, which is spreading globally. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pandemics happen when a new novel virus emerges and infects people easily through person-to-person spread.

March 12, 2020

Coronavirus, or COVID-19, seems to spread rapidly from person to person. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends COVID-19 patients be isolated either in the hospital or at home until they no longer pose a risk of infecting others.

March 10, 2020

By now, you've probably heard of the coronavirus, or COVID-19. Each day, new cases are recorded worldwide, and the headlines just keep getting worse. With a lot of questions still unanswered, here are the facts we know.

March 10, 2020

Fever, cough, and shortness of breath are all potential symptoms of both influenza and the coronavirus disease, also known as COVID-19. Both diseases can cause mild to severe illness, and both can pose serious complications to high-risk groups. So how does someone know if they have the flu or COVID-19?

March 09, 2020

We all know how important it is to wash our hands before and after handling food and using the restroom. But how effective is hand sanitizer? Is it just as good as soap and water?

March 03, 2020

Women are more susceptible to some viral illnesses during pregnancy, still little is known about how coronavirus, or COVID-19, impacts an expectant mother and her baby. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) consider women to be part of an at-risk population for severe illness in the case of some viral infections, such as influenza.

March 02, 2020

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are advising people to wash their hands frequently to protect themselves from respiratory illness. Handwashing, especially during key illness times such as flu season, is the best way to remove germs and avoid getting sick.

February 05, 2020

Taking a few precautions will help.

January 27, 2020

An outbreak of a newly recognized coronavirus in the Chinese city of Wuhan is making international headlines. Already hundreds of people have been sickened and more than 80 have died as a result of the illness. Additional coronavirus patients have been found in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea and the United States.